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Saudi Arabia draws with Uruguay amid potential World Cup rule breach

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 12:40 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Saudi Arabia draws with Uruguay amid potential World Cup rule breach

Summary

Saudi Arabia and Uruguay played to a 1-1 draw on June 16 during the World Cup group stage. The match raised concerns regarding a breach of FIFA's new rules concerning tactical timeouts for goalkeepers. Specifically, while Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais received treatment, a player appeared to consult the coaching staff, which could violate the rule prohibiting players from leaving the field during such scenarios. FIFA referees' chief Pierluigi Collina had previously instructed coaches that players must remain on the field when a goalkeeper is injured. Discussions continue around how FIFA may enforce this rule in future matches.

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Status Watch

•Saudi Arabia and Uruguay finish 1-1 in group match
•Goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais received treatment during the match
•Saudi coaching staff may have breached FIFA's new timeout rules
•FIFA emphasizes players must not leave the field for tactical discussions
•Future actions by FIFA regarding the rule's enforcement remain uncertain

Latest Updates

12:40 AMYahoo Sports — Did Saudi Arabia breach one of FIFA’s new World Cup rules against Uruguay?

What they're saying

"
Fans, players, and coaching staff alike have had to wrap their heads around the new set of laws FIFA introduced for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico – some haven’t quite stuck yet....
— Yahoo Sports

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