Uruguay 1-0 Saudi Arabia: World Cup 2018 Group A goals, result
Luis Suárez celebrated his 100th cap by getting the only goal as Uruguay reached the last 16, and confirmed Russia's qualification from Group A.
Uruguay beat Saudi Arabia 1-0 on Wednesday thanks to a goal from striker Luis Sáarez, propelling the South Americans and hosts Russia into the knockout stage and eliminating the Saudis.
Suárez marks 100th cap by sending Uruguay, Russia through
Suárez, making his 100th appearance for the national team, became the first Uruguayan to score in three different World Cups after a mistake by goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais following a corner in the 23rd minute.
But Uruguay's largely tepid performance against Saudi Arabia, the second-lowest ranked side of the tournament, did not calm fears that Suárez, 31, is not on his best form and may not be able to carry the two-time champions far in Russia.
The result also knocked out Egypt, who lost 3-1 to the Russians on Tuesday.
Uruguay, Russia to meet qualifiers from Group B in last 16
Uruguay and Russia from Group A will face Spain, Portugal, or Iran from Group B in the second round.
Uruguay vs Saudi Arabia live online | World Cup 2018: as it happened
Uruguay vs Saudi Arabia live online | World Cup 2018: match preview
Uruguay landed a last minute goal against Egypt in their first game and Suadi Arabia were disposed of by the hosts, Russia, in their first encounter. That Egyptian side, with Mo Salah starting in his first World Cup, were beaten by Russia on Tuesday and Uruguay struggled desperately past them as the jury is still out on their credentials in the World Cup. Saudi Arabai, on the other hand, were slapped with the “worst performance of the first round” after they tried and failed to overcome Russia on a scoreline of 5-0.
Uruguay’s attack is world class but Oscar Tabarez plays a very practical style, counting on his defence, anchored by Atletico Madrid due Jose Gimenez and Diego Godin. One of their standout performers in the first round was Rodrigo Bentacur and you would expect a more dominant and self-assured performance from La Celeste against Saudi Arabis. A goal for If and he will become his country's joint-second top scorer at the FIFA World Cup beside Diego Forlan.
Juan Antonio Pizzi was criticised for his approach against Russia as they tried to play the ball out from the back and not stick to their strengths. He insisted he was doing what he felt was best but is considering shoring up his back line in an effort to prevent Suarez and Cavani running roughshod over his rattled forces.