Saudi Arabia and Uruguay will kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaigns on Monday 15th June 2026 evening at Hard Rock Stadium, with both nations targeting a crucial opening victory in Group H.
Roberto Mancini has decided to part ways with Qatari side Al Sadd, as he is tipped to be the next Italy national team head coach.
The group also features Spain and Cape Verde, making this fixture potentially decisive in the race for a place in the knockout stages. While Spain are widely expected to top the group, the battle for second place remains wide open.
Saudi Arabia arrive at another World Cup looking to improve on their recent performances after suffering group-stage exits in both 2018 and 2022. The Green Falcons have become regular participants on football’s biggest stage and will be hoping to make a strong statement in their opening match.
Uruguay, meanwhile, bring a rich World Cup pedigree into the tournament. The South Americans are two-time world champions, having lifted the trophy in 1930 and 1950, while also reaching the semi-finals in 2010 and the quarter-finals in 2018.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side may no longer feature legendary forwards Luis Suárez and Edinson Cavani, but La Celeste still possess plenty of quality and experience. Uruguay head into the competition after draws against England and Algeria in their most recent international friendlies.
The two nations have met three times previously, with both sides claiming one victory each, including Uruguay’s 1-0 win during the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
A positive result on Monday could prove vital for either side as they look to gain an early advantage in the battle for qualification from Group H.
Teams News
Saudi Arabia will be without the services of Nawaf Al Aqidi (muscle) for their opening match of the 2026 World Cup, but the Green One are otherwise in strong shape.
Salem Al-Dawsari is the captain and leading goalscorer in the squad with 34, and Saudi Arabia will be looking to the number 10 for inspiration in their clash with Uruguay.
As for Uruguay, Jose Gimenez (ankle), Ronald Araujo (calf), Giorgian de Arrascaeta (calf), Matias Vina (muscle) and Sebastian Caceres (head) could all be unavailable for selection.
Federico Valverde is the team’s standout player and will operate in midfield, while Manuel Ugarte, Rodrigo Bentancur and Darwin Nunez are also set to feature from the first whistle.
Possible Lineups
Saudi Arabia possible starting lineup:
Al-Owais; Abdulhamid, Al Tambakti, Lajami, Bu; Kanno, Al-Khaibari; N Al-Dawsari, Al-Juwayr, S Al-Dawsari; Al-Buraikan
Uruguay possible starting lineup:
Muslera; Varela, Caceres, Bueno, Olivera; Valverde, Ugarte, Bentancur, M Araujo; Vinas, Nunez
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV stream |
| Kick-off Time | 17:00 (WAT) |
Match Predictions
Softfootball predicts Saudi Arabia 1-2 Uruguay
This is a tough match to call, as cases can be made for either to win it – we came close to backing a draw but have just settled on Uruguay, who have a lot of talent in midfield and attack.
