Maxi Araujo rescues Uruguay as Al-Owais defies the favourites

Maximiliano Araujo's late finish earned Uruguay a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, but the two-time world champions were made to work hard for their point against a resolute, well-organised opponent on 15 June.

Al-Amri puts Saudi Arabia ahead

Saudi Arabia took a deserved lead in the 41st minute when Abdulelah Al-Amri poked the ball home after veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera could only parry Mohamed Kanno's header. The Green Falcons went in front at the break having frustrated a flat Uruguay.

Araujo levels in the heat

Uruguay improved markedly after the interval, with greater urgency following the withdrawal of Darwin Nunez. Araujo finally levelled in the 80th minute when goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais could only push a Federico Vinas header into his path. Uruguay finished with 27 shots and pushed for a winner as Miami's heat sapped their opponents.

Al-Owais was the standout, producing a string of saves to keep Saudi Arabia in the contest. The draw left both sides knowing they had work to do after Cape Verde's stunning point against Spain earlier in the day.