Saudi Arabia scored their first goal of the tournament

It had been nothing but gloom for Saudi Arabia so far in Russia. After being hammered 5-0 by the hosts, they were then defeated by Uruguay 1-0, and it looked like things were going the same way on Monday in their clash with Egypt.

Mo Salah had given his side the lead early on, and Saudi Arabia then saw a penalty saved by veteran goalkeeper Essam El Hadary in the 41st minute. With half-time imminent, however, they were awarded another penalty. 

Al Muwallad went down in the box after contact from Gabr, albeit very easily. It was soft, but VAR confirmed the referee's decision and Salman Al-Faraj stepped up to take the second spot kick. 

This time El Hadary was unable to prevent a goal, as Al-Faraj sent the keeper the wrong way, levelling the game at 1-1, and giving his nation their first goal of the tournament.

 

June 25, 2018