KUWAIT, June 25 (KUNA) -- Saudi Arabia ended its World Cup appearance with a 2-1 win over Egypt to gain three points in Group A.
"We secured three points to add to the history of the Saudi team," Osama Hawsawi said in a post-game statement.
"We had a great performance and we were able to win. We stopped the serious (threat) of Mohammad Salah and his companions," he said.
Egypt took the lead when Salah received a long pass to the top of the box and tipped it over the Saudi goalkeeper in the 22nd minute.
Saudi Arabia has been relentless against the Egyptians, and got another penalty when Ali Jabr tackled a Saudi player inside the area.
Salman Al-Faraj converted the penalty and equalized the score in 46th minute.
Al-Hadhary made many saves that prevented the Saudis from boosting their score in the second half.
But Salem Al-Dosari drilled the ball into the far left corner in the 95th minute to end the game in favor of Saudi Arabia 2-1.
Al-Doseri said "We played a big game, we managed to achieve victory, an honourable victory. I was able to register my name in the list of players who scored in the World Cup and this is a matter of pride.
"We were hoping to qualify but the first match did not live up to our expectations and we did not deserve to lose the second game," he said. (end) bs