Uruguay rescued a point in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match after Maxi Araujo scored a late equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia in a competitive Group H encounter.

Saudi Arabia looked set for another famous opening-match victory at a World Cup after taking the lead before half-time. The Asian side had shocked the football world by defeating eventual champions Argentina in their first game at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and were hoping to repeat that feat against Uruguay.

However, Marcelo Bielsa's side dominated the second half and eventually found a way through to earn a deserved share of the points.

Saudi Arabia Strike Before Half-Time

Saudi Arabia defended well for much of the first half and made the most of a set-piece opportunity just before the break. In the 41st minute, Hassan Al Tambakti powered a header towards goal from a corner kick. Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera managed to save the effort, but Abdulelah Al Amri reacted quickest to the rebound and turned the ball into the net.

The goal gave Saudi Arabia a 1-0 lead and sparked hopes of another memorable World Cup upset.

Bielsa's Changes Transform Uruguay

Uruguay struggled to create clear opportunities during the opening 45 minutes, prompting coach Marcelo Bielsa to make two substitutions at half-time. One of the players withdrawn was striker Darwin Nunez, who had endured a difficult first half and failed to make a significant impact.

The changes immediately improved Uruguay's performance. The South Americans played with greater intensity, moved the ball quicker and began creating regular chances. Saudi Arabia found themselves under increasing pressure as Uruguay pushed forward in search of an equaliser.

Al Owais Produces Goalkeeping Masterclass

Saudi Arabia goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais played a crucial role in keeping his side ahead for much of the second half. The experienced shot-stopper produced a series of excellent saves as Uruguay launched wave after wave of attacks.

One of his finest moments came when he tipped a powerful low effort from Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte onto the post. Uruguay finished the match with 28 shots on goal, but Al Owais repeatedly denied them with a string of impressive interventions.

Araujo Finally Breaks Through

Despite Saudi Arabia's resistance, Uruguay eventually found the breakthrough with 10 minutes remaining. Federico Vinas met a cross with a header that forced another save from Al Owais. However, the goalkeeper could only push the ball into the path of Maxi Araujo.

The winger reacted quickly and fired home from close range to level the score at 1-1. The goal ensured Uruguay avoided defeat after spending much of the second half on the attack.

Saudi Arabia Hold On for Valuable Point

Even after conceding, Saudi Arabia continued to battle hard and relied on Al Owais to preserve the draw. The goalkeeper produced another outstanding save in stoppage time, diving low to push away a fierce strike from Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde.

His nine-save performance proved vital as Saudi Arabia secured a valuable point against one of South America's strongest teams.

Questions Continue Over Darwin Nunez

Darwin Nunez's difficult performance was one of the main talking points from the match. The former Liverpool striker has struggled for regular football in recent months. Since February, his playing time has been limited after being left out of Al-Hilal's Saudi Pro League squad following the arrival of Karim Benzema.

Although Nunez scored nine goals in 24 appearances this season, uncertainty remains over his future. Against Saudi Arabia, he managed only eight touches before being substituted at half-time — the fewest touches he has recorded in a start for Uruguay.

Uruguay looked significantly more dangerous after his departure, a development that may leave Bielsa with a difficult decision ahead of the team's next match.

Group H Race Remains Wide Open

Following Cape Verde's surprise draw against Spain, Group H remains completely open after the first round of fixtures. Saudi Arabia continue their pursuit of a first appearance in the knockout stage since the 1994 World Cup, while Uruguay will feel confident after their dominant second-half display. Both teams remain firmly in contention for qualification.

What Next?

Saudi Arabia face a huge challenge next when they take on tournament favourites Spain on June 21 in Atlanta. Uruguay will meet Cape Verde in Miami on the same day in another crucial Group H clash.

With every point likely to matter in a tightly contested group, both matches could play a major role in deciding who advances to the knockout rounds.