He was on the Bench when Uruguay beat Egypt.
But when he came on for the second game, CAF African and BBC Africa footballer of the year, mohammed Salah could not inspire the Pharohs of Egypt.
And so World Cup hosts Russia booked their place in the second round with a 3-1 win over Egypt to lead Group A with six points from two games at the 2018 FIFA world cup.
Three goals within 15 minutes in the second half put the Russians firmly in command before Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, back from injury, scored a penalty, awarded after a video review.
Should Uruguay (3 points) beat Saudi Arabia (0 points) on Wednesday it will ensure the South Americans and the Russians go through to the round of 16 with a game to spare.