Saudi Arabia came within touching distance of a famous FIFA World Cup 2026 victory, but Maxi Araujo’s late intervention ensured Uruguay escaped with a point in a dramatic Group H opener at Miami Stadium.
The Green Falcons looked set to celebrate a major upset after Abdulelah Al Amri’s first-half strike gave them the lead, but Uruguay’s second-half pressure eventually broke through as Araujo struck in the 80th minute to make it 1-1.
The result leaves Group H finely balanced, with all four teams level after World Cup debutants Cabo Verde also held Spain to a goalless draw earlier in the day.
Saudi Arabia’s defensive discipline frustrated Uruguay for long periods despite the South Americans starting strongly.
Araujo tested goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais early on, before Federico Vinas saw his diving header denied by an impressive stop.
However, Saudi Arabia grew into the contest and punished Uruguay from a set-piece.
Fernando Muslera initially denied Al Amri, but moments later the same player reacted quickest inside the box after another dangerous corner to fire the Green Falcons ahead.
Uruguay increased the pressure after the break as they searched for a response.
Vinas went close with another header, while Manuel Ugarte’s powerful long-range effort struck the woodwork.
The breakthrough finally arrived when Vinas forced a save from Al Owais, allowing Araujo to react fastest and finish the rebound to restore parity.
Uruguay pushed for a late winner, with Federico Valverde testing the Saudi goalkeeper, but the Green Falcons held firm to claim a valuable point.
The draw marked another sign of Saudi Arabia’s growing confidence on the world stage, while Uruguay will see the result as a missed opportunity after dominating much of the match.
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