Araujo out, flight chaos behind them: Uruguay open World Cup against Saudi Arabia

World Cup opener goes ahead Monday

Uruguay face Saudi Arabia in the opening Group H match Monday. The game kicks off in Miami after a chaotic 48 hours that saw the squad stuck in Cancún. Bielsa refused to make excuses: "These things happen in football. We trained, we prepared, we're ready." (1) (2)

The match is the first competitive test of Uruguay's campaign. Araujo is a major doubt with a muscular injury, he has traveled to Spain for treatment and will not feature. (2) (9)

Flight chaos: four hours stranded in Cancún

Uruguay's flight to Miami was blocked Sunday afternoon. US authorities denied landing clearance because the plane's documentation was incomplete. The squad waited four hours on the tarmac.

José María Giménez described the situation as "difficult." (1) (2) (7) (9) (10) The team eventually arrived later than planned, disrupting Bielsa's pre-match schedule.

FIFA fine possible

Uruguay could be fined by FIFA for failing to follow arrival protocol. The delay meant the squad missed mandatory pre-match procedures at the stadium. FIFA is reviewing the circumstances. (10)

Donis: Saudi Arabia will attack

Saudi Arabia coach Georgios Donis made his intentions clear: "Our philosophy is to be bold, we will not defend ourselves." (12) He promised an aggressive approach against Uruguay. No sitting deep, no damage limitation. Your team will face a Saudi side that wants to play.

Giménez on his Atlético future

José María Giménez spoke about his club situation amid World Cup preparations. He said he is "willing to listen to what Atlético decide" about his future. (5) No ultimatum, no demand, the 31-year-old is leaving the door open for whatever the club wants.

Fan reactions

Uruguay fans on Reddit were furious about the travel situation. The top post showed the squad stranded in Cancún for four hours, with supporters calling out FIFA and US authorities for the paperwork issue. See the full discussion here.