Pizzi: Saudi Arabia have to show competitive ability against Uruguay Fifa World Cup Russia 2018 He wants to make up after Russia thrashing

Saudi Arabia coach Juan Antonio Pizzi has called upon his side to make a statement against Uruguay on Wednesday after opening day humiliation in the 5-0 defeat to hosts Russia.

The former Valencia coach made it clear that improvements are needed.

"It's clear that we have other priorities, beyond winning the game, we have to show our competitive ability," he insisted.

"Besides tactics, we have to show our ability to fight.

"It's the only way to play a game of football.

"Even more so against a team that make that a key part of their game.

"The least we can do is fight with the same energy as them."

Asked who was to blame for that defeat, he did not hide from the critics.

"I'm the responsible one, we have to make up for the feeling from the first game," he said.

"We're prepared to play a good game tomorrow."

Pizzi was also asked about whether the fact that a number of his players had spent time in Spain, though getting very little game time, had affected the squad.

"Even considering that they barely played, even given that, it was beneficial because we've received footballers who have developed professionally, physically and tactically," he added.

Defeat to Uruguay would confirm Saudi Arabia being unable to progress in the World Cup after only two games.