"I'm proud of everything the players do every day, I am not going to lose my pride in the players after a poor result," said Donis, who took charge in April.

"I've seen games at the World Cup that have ended 5-1 and 6-0. We are here to take the criticism, but I also expect all those that criticise us to be realists as well."

Saudi Arabia held Uruguay 1-1 in their opening game but couldn't match reigning European champions Spain, who were determined to bounce back after being held to a goalless draw by Cabo Verde last week.

Donis rejected the suggestion his side had been scared of Spain.

"When a match isn't going your way and you've conceded three quick goals, insecurities start to creep in. It's obvious we were affected. We're human, but I wouldn't call it fear."

All is not lost, however, for Saudi Arabia as Uruguay's 2-2 stalemate with Cabo Verde means victory against the African side on Friday will likely secure passage to the knockout stage for the first time since the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

Photos: AFP