Saudi Arabia Hold Uruguay to 1-1 Draw Despite 27-Shot Barrage
Saudi Arabia Hold Uruguay to 1-1 Draw Despite 27-Shot Barrage
Abdulelah Al-Amri’s first-half header gave the Saudis a surprise lead, but Mohammed Al-Owais made five saves to secure a point as Uruguay dominated the statistics
Saudi Arabia produced a resilient defensive display to hold Uruguay to a 1-1 draw at the Miami Stadium on Monday, with goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais delivering a standout performance to deny the South Americans despite facing 27 shots.
Centre-back Abdulelah Al-Amri headed Saudi Arabia into a surprise lead in the 40th minute, scoring his first international goal on the biggest stage. The defender rose highest to meet a set-piece delivery, sending the Saudi supporters into celebration before picking up a yellow card shortly after.
Uruguay responded with relentless pressure in the second half. The South Americans dominated possession with 65 percent and registered an overwhelming 27 shots, 10 of which were on target. Manuel Ugarte came closest when his powerful effort struck the woodwork, but Al-Owais repeatedly denied Uruguay’s attacking efforts.
The equaliser finally arrived in the 79th minute. Toluca winger Maximiliano Araújo turned in a rebound after Federico Viñas’s initial attempt, finally beating Al-Owais and sparing Uruguay’s blushes.
Saudi Arabia managed seven shots, three on target, and earned four corners to Uruguay’s 14. Al-Owais made five critical saves throughout the match, keeping his side in the lead for nearly 40 minutes of the second half.
According to a report by Accra Street Journal, Uruguay will count themselves fortunate to escape with a point after dominating the statistics but failing to convert their chances. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, will take immense confidence from pushing a traditional South American powerhouse to the brink.
Both teams leave with a point in Group H, alongside Spain and Cabo Verde who also drew 0-0 on Monday. Uruguay must find greater efficiency in front of goal, while Saudi Arabia have proven they can compete with the tournament’s elite.
Source: Accra Street Journal
