Maxi Araújo scored a late equaliser as Uruguay fought back to earn a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia in their opening Group H match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Saudi Arabia appeared on course for another famous World Cup opening-game victory after taking the lead shortly before half-time against the South American side.
The breakthrough came in the 41st minute when Abdulelah Al Amri reacted quickest after Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera parried Hassan Al Tambakti’s powerful header from a corner, allowing the defender to bundle the ball into the net.
The goal revived memories of Saudi Arabia’s stunning 2-1 victory over eventual champions Argentina in their opening match of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, one of the greatest upsets in tournament history.
Uruguay responded strongly after the interval, with head coach Marcelo Bielsa making two substitutions at half-time, including the withdrawal of former Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez. The changes brought fresh energy and urgency to the team.
The South Americans dominated the second half and continually threatened the Saudi goal. Goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais was called into action several times, producing an outstanding fingertip save to push Manuel Ugarte’s low effort onto the post.
Uruguay’s pressure finally paid off in the 80th minute when Al Owais could only parry Federico Viñas’ header into the path of Araújo, who calmly converted from close range to bring his side level.
Al Owais finished with nine saves, including a superb stoppage-time stop to deny Federico Valverde and secure a valuable point for Saudi Arabia. Following Cape Verde’s surprise goalless draw against Spain earlier in the day, the result leaves Group H wide open as the Saudis continue their quest to reach the knockout stages for the first time since 1994.
