Saudi Arabia and Uruguay begin their 2026 World Cup Group H campaigns with a high-stakes opener at Hard Rock Stadium on Monday evening, in a section that also includes Spain and Cape Verde.
With the battle for the knockout spots expected to be tight behind group favourites Spain, both sides will see this fixture as a key early opportunity to build momentum.
Match Preview
Saudi Arabia head into their seventh World Cup appearance having become regular participants since 1994, missing only the 2010 and 2014 editions. However, their recent tournament history has been underwhelming, with consecutive group-stage exits and only one-ever run to the round of 16 back in their debut campaign.
Georgios Donis’ side arrive in decent but unspectacular form, drawing 0-0 with Senegal in their final warm-up match after mixed results against Puerto Rico (1-0 win) and Ecuador (2-1 loss). While competitive, Saudi Arabia still lack consistency at the highest level and will need a near-perfect group stage to progress.
Uruguay, meanwhile, bring far more pedigree to the contest despite the absence of former icons Luis Suárez and Edinson Cavani. Marcelo Bielsa’s side remain a dangerous force, built on intensity and structure, and they have the midfield quality to control matches against most opponents.
La Celeste were last seen in March friendlies, drawing 1-1 with England and 0-0 with Algeria, but their World Cup history remains strong with two titles (1930, 1950) and a semi-final appearance in 2010. After a group-stage exit in 2022, Uruguay will be targeting a stronger run this time.
Team News
Saudi Arabia are set to be without goalkeeper Nawaf Al Aqidi due to a muscle injury, but otherwise have a fully fit squad. Captain Salem Al-Dawsari remains their key creative force and top scorer, while Firas Al-Buraikan is expected to lead the line.
Uruguay have several defensive concerns, with José Giménez, Ronald Araújo and Matías Viña all doubtful. Santiago Cáceres is expected to step in if needed, while Federico Valverde anchors the midfield alongside Manuel Ugarte and Rodrigo Bentancur. Darwin Núñez leads the attack.
Predicted Lineups
Saudi Arabia:
Al-Owais; Abdulhamid, Al Tambakti, Lajami, Bu; Kanno, Al-Khaibari; N. Al-Dawsari, Al-Juwayr, S. Al-Dawsari; Al-Buraikan
Uruguay:
Muslera; Varela, Cáceres, Bueno, Olivera; Valverde, Ugarte, Bentancur, M. Araujo; Viñas, Núñez
Prediction
Saudi Arabia will compete and frustrate at times, but Uruguay’s midfield control and attacking power should prove decisive.
We say: Saudi Arabia 1-2 Uruguay
