Saudi Arabia: embracing the underdog role once again

Saudi Arabia heads into the tournament still searching for consistency. Neither Hervé Renard’s return nor Giorgos Donis’ appointment has fully established a recognizable style of play. Across five friendlies in 2026, the “Green Falcons” showed flashes of promise, particularly in a convincing 3-0 win over Puerto Rico and a disciplined 0-0 draw against Senegal shortly before the World Cup opener.

That result against Senegal may also have revealed the likely setup for the opening match. Firas Al-Buraikan is expected to spearhead the attack, while Mohammed Kanno should slot back into midfield alongside Nasser Al-Dawsari. Saudi Arabia will once again step onto the pitch as clear outsiders — a position that may actually suit them. After all, the world still remembers their stunning 2-1 upset over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, proving they are capable of punishing complacency from bigger opponents.

Uruguay: talent remains, but preparation has been far from smooth

Uruguay secured qualification comfortably, yet the build-up to the tournament has been anything but reassuring. Marcelo Bielsa’s men struggled for rhythm in friendlies, failing to score against both Mexico and Algeria, conceding five goals in a heavy loss to the USA, and settling for a 1-1 draw with England in a performance that felt more experimental than convincing.

Squad fitness is another concern. Ronald Araújo is expected to miss the opener, while Giorgian De Arrascaeta’s recovery continues to raise doubts. José María Giménez and Joaquín Piquerez are also facing fitness issues. Still, even with key absences, Uruguay possess enough quality to make the difference. Players like Federico Valverde, Manuel Ugarte, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Darwin Núñez provide the kind of individual brilliance capable of deciding matches.

Probable lineups

Saudi Arabia: Al-Aqeedi; Al-Harbi, Al-Amri, Al-Tambakti, Abdulhamid; Al-Khaibari, Al-Dawsari, Kanno, Yahya; Al-Buraikan, Al-Dawsari.

Uruguay: Muslera; Varela, Cáceres, Oliveira, Bueno; Valverde, Ugarte, Bentancur; Araújo, Núñez, Rodríguez.

Match facts and head-to-head

Saudi Arabia recorded a 3-0 victory over Puerto Rico and a goalless draw against Senegal in their final preparations.

Uruguay’s recent friendlies included scoreless draws with Mexico and Algeria, a 1-5 loss to the USA, and a 1-1 draw against England.

Marcelo Bielsa won his previous World Cup opening matches with both Argentina and Chile by an identical 1-0 scoreline.

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