Luis Suarez celebrated his 100th international cap by booking Uruguay’s place in the World Cup knockout rounds as he scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia.
The result also means hosts Russia also made it to the next round after winning their opening two games. At the same time, Egypt and Saudi Arabia became the first two teams to be dumped out of the competition.
After the horror display in their opener where they lost 5-0 against Russia, Saudi Arabia came up with a far better display. However, their good work was undone when a poor mistake from replacement goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais handed Uruguay the winner.
Moment of the Day ?
When @LuisSuarez9 found the net on his 100th appearance for @Uruguay ?
? Highlights ? https://t.co/LOdKDX2Cwn
? TV listings ? https://t.co/xliHcxWvEO pic.twitter.com/83lkSQM8MF— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 20, 2018
The keeper failed to deal with a corner and it was enough for Suarez to find the back of the net. In doing so, the Barcelona star became the first Uruguay player to score at three World Cups. The loss extended Saudi Arabia’s winless run in World Cup to 12 games. They are now in danger of finishing bottom of their group.
The Asian outfit started the game on a good note, showing good defensive skills before the mistake from their keeper gifted Suarez the winner in the 23rd minute.
Saudi Arabia responded well after conceding the goal but failed to get the equaliser. Fernando Muslera had to tip over a long-range drive from Hattan Bahebri before the latter missed a fine chance in the box.
Luis Suarez – the first player to score at three different editions of the #WorldCup for @Uruguay! pic.twitter.com/B2xfSuZd47
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 20, 2018
As the game wore on, both the teams struggled to create too many clear chances. Sanchez and Suarez had the chance to extend Uruguay’s lead but the failed.
Saudi Arabia enjoyed the lion’s share of possession in the closing stages but there was no route to goal as Uruguay held firm.
Uruguay will now take on Russia in the final group game which would decide the top two of the group.