Saudi Arabia head coach Georgios Donis hailed his players’ determination after they opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Uruguay in Miami on Tuesday.
Competing at their third consecutive World Cup, the Green Falcons made the breakthrough shortly before the interval. Following a corner, Hassan Tambakti’s header was saved, but Abdulelah Al Amri reacted quickest to convert the rebound and hand Saudi Arabia the advantage.
The goal gave Donis’ side a deserved lead at the break after a disciplined first-half display in which they managed to contain their opponents while creating opportunities of their own.
Uruguay respond after the interval
Uruguay increased the pressure after half-time and eventually found a way back into the contest with 10 minutes remaining. Goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais initially denied the South Americans by pushing away an effort, but Maxi Araujo slid in to finish the rebound and level the score.
Despite conceding late on, Al Owais produced an outstanding performance between the posts. The Al Ula goalkeeper made nine saves throughout the match and was rewarded with the Man of the Match award.
His contribution proved vital as Saudi Arabia resisted prolonged spells of pressure and secured a valuable point from their opening Group H fixture.
Donis reflects on his side’s display
Speaking after the match, Donis said the result represented an important step for a squad still adapting to his methods following his appointment in late April.
The coach explained that the team had spent the previous three weeks working on their style of play, strengthening team spirit and building a stronger foundation. He described the point against Uruguay as a positive outcome that could provide a significant psychological lift moving forward.
Donis also noted that Saudi Arabia controlled large periods of the first half and created chances, although he felt his side lacked the decisive edge needed to extend their advantage.
Areas to improve before Spain test
Assessing the second half, Donis suggested his players became more focused on protecting their lead after going in front. As a result, Saudi Arabia spent longer periods defending and struggled to maintain the same level of intensity shown before the break.
He added that his team did not display enough confidence in possession to slow the tempo and relieve pressure, allowing Uruguay to push deeper into Saudi territory and spend extended periods near their penalty area.
Even so, Donis praised the performances of Al Owais and the defensive unit, whose efforts helped secure the draw and ensure Saudi Arabia collected a point from their opening match.
Looking ahead
The result leaves Saudi Arabia with a platform to build on after the first round of Group H fixtures. Their point was made even more significant after Cape Verde held 2010 champions Spain to a goalless draw on Monday.
Attention now turns to Friday’s meeting with Spain in Atlanta, where Donis and his players will look to build on the encouraging aspects of their opening performance.