Saudi footballer Yasser al-Shahrani successfully underwent surgery on his pancreatic gland in hospital in Riyadh on Wednesday following a gruesome clash with goalkeeper Mohammed al-Owais during the team’s World Cup match with Argentina on Tuesday.

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Al-Shahrani suffered serious injuries when al-Owais leaped into the air to defend a shot, and ended up striking the defender from his own team in the face with his left knee, and in the abdomen with his right.

30-year-old al-Shahrani was initially taken to Hamad Medical City in Qatar where he underwent a full medical checkup and spent the night, a spokesperson for the Saudi Arabian Football Federation said in a statement.

He was then moved from the hospital in Doha to the National Guard Hospital in Riyadh for surgery.

“Everyone at the Saudi Arabian Football Federation wishes Yasser a full and speedy recovery,” the spokesperson added.

Al-Shahrani earlier spoke from his hospital bed to assure fans he was recovering well after sustaining the injury.

He said: “I wanted to assure you that I am okay. Pray for me. And congratulations to our Saudi fans on the win. You deserve it.”

The collision resulted in a fractured jaw, broken facial bones and internal bleeding, according to local media reports.

In an earlier statement, the Saudi National Team said al-Shahrani’s condition was stable and is currently under observation.

Saudi Arabia made a historic 2-1 win over Argentina on Tuesday, ending the South American giants’ 36-match unbeaten record at the Lusail Stadium.

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