Uruguay reach 2nd round as centurion Suarez scores goal

Uruguay beat Saudi Arabia 1-0 in their World Cup Group A match in the Rostov Arena on Wednesday thanks to a 23rd minute goal from Luis Suarez, who was making his 100th appearance for his country.

It was a relatively dull match in Rostov-On-Don with Uruguay happy to control things against a rival who tried hard but lacked the ability to create clear chances against a defense well-marshalled by Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez.

Meanwhile, Luis Suarez had a day to remember as he scored the only goal for his team.

The 52nd goal of Suarez's international career came in his 100th appearance for his country and means his side have qualified for the last 16 of the tournament after just two games.

"It's spectacular, we are more than proud that we have been in the last 16 for three consecutive World Cup," said Suarez after the game.

He has now scored in three consecutive World Cups and is the first Uruguayan to achieve this feat.

"We are not playing as we'd like to play, but we have seen in this World Cup that it's results that matter," he admitted, but denied they had underestimated the Saudis.

"We wanted to win and qualify for the next round. This game shows how hard it is to win in the World Cup. What matters in the World Cup finals are goals," commented Suarez.

Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez also had words for the striker.

"He is a generous player and there are other things he has shown in his career. He has personality and a great sense of responsibility and he is able to take the pressure. Maybe he has one bad game, but you know in the next game he will perform, and he is vital for the team," Tabarez told the press.