Saudi Arabia advances at World Cup 2026 with draw against Uruguay as Arab nations struggle in opening round.
Lead:
The FIFA World Cup 2026, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, entered its second round of group-stage matches following an opening week marked by historic Arab participation and mixed results. Eight Arab national teams qualified for the tournament—a record number—yet none secured victory in their opening fixtures, with results divided between draws and defeats across multiple competitions.
Regional football continues to command attention as established European and South American powers navigate the tournament, while domestic Saudi clubs pursue continental honors in parallel competitions. The championship has already set attendance records, surpassing one million spectators within the first six days of play.
Top Stories:
Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay — The Saudi national team drew 1-1 with Uruguay in Group D, a respectable opening result against a historically strong opponent. Defender Abdulilah Al-Amri scored his first World Cup goal, earning praise for a solid defensive performance as the squad prepares for Sunday's match against Spain in Atlanta.England 4-2 Croatia — England opened its campaign with a convincing victory, with captain Harry Kane extending his record as the all-time penalty scorer in World Cup history by converting successfully against Croatia. The Three Lions achieved their eighth opening-match win in 17 World Cup tournaments.Portugal 1-1 Democratic Republic of Congo — Cristiano Ronaldo, at age 39, failed to mark his appearance with a goal as Portugal drew against Congo in a Group 11 encounter. Congolese striker Yves Tiekoura scored the opening goal in his nation's first World Cup appearance, with Ronaldo equalizing but unable to add further goals.Al-Khalij loses Asian handball title — Saudi club Al-Khalij lost the AFC Asian Handball Club Championship final to Kuwait's Burgan 34-32 in a closely contested match, missing the opportunity to claim continental silverware.Arab teams winless in opening round — Tunisia's coaching staff underwent changes following heavy defeats, while coaches across Arab delegations face pressure as the region registers four draws and four losses in initial group matches with seven goals scored overall.What to Watch:
Saudi Arabia faces Spain on Sunday in a critical Group D encounter in Atlanta, with both teams seeking stronger positioning ahead of subsequent matches. Mexico plays South Korea on Thursday in Guadalajara, with the winner securing the first confirmed berth to the Round of 32.