Having been thumped 5-zip against Russia in their opening Group A fixture, Saudi Arabia had nothing to lose by making wholesale changes for their do-or-die encounter with Uruguay this (Wednesday) afternoon.
Having given the young guns the chance first time round, coach Juan Antonio Pizzi recalled some ‘senior citizens’ to bolster the defence that had leaked worse than a municipal reservoir.
To their credit, the Saudis came out with all guns blazing. Not that they were gigantic guns, but at least the intent was there to restore some pride.
Courtesy of a Luis Suarez goal in the 23rd minute, Uruguay did enough to gain their second three-pointer to join Egypt on six points and ensure their progress to the round of 16.
The goal was handed to the Barcelona striker as the ball fell to his feet barely three metres from the line and all he had to do was prod it home.
It was a dull affair for spectators, other than the competing countries’ fans and those whose fortunes might be affected by the outcome.
Can’t see Uruguay progressing much further in this competition.
