Uruguay frustrated by dogged Saudi Arabia in World Cup draw

Uruguay was left frustrated after a 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia in sweltering Miami heat, a result that leaves Group H of the World Cup wide open. The stalemate followed a shock result earlier in the day where European champions Spain were held to a goalless draw by debutants Cape Verde.

After the first round of games, all four teams in Group H sit on one point. Saudi Arabia took a surprise lead just before halftime through defender Abdulelah al-Amri, who reacted quickest to a spilled header from a corner. However, Uruguay's second-half pressure finally paid off with ten minutes remaining when Maxi Araujo capitalized on a goalkeeping error to score the equalizer.

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We should have won this match.

Uruguay, managed by Marcelo Bielsa, dominated the second half, unleashing 22 shots. Despite this offensive onslaught, the Saudi defense, marshaled by goalkeeper Mohammed al-Owais, held firm for long periods. "We should have won this match," said Bielsa, admitting his side only found its rhythm in the second half. "We weren’t able to show the best version of ourselves."

The match was played in challenging conditions, with temperatures exceeding 30C and high humidity. Both teams struggled to create clear chances early on. Uruguay's arrival in the United States was also delayed due to a snag with their plane's paperwork. The South American side, World Cup winners in 1930 and 1950, will face Cape Verde in their next match.

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We weren’t able to show the best version of ourselves.