After a Goalless Draw With Mexico, Uruguay Will Travel to Tampa
Uruguay arrives in Tampa for Tuesday's friendly against the United States riding momentum from a solid year, despite their goalless draw with Mexico on Saturday. The South American side represents the USMNT's toughest test in recent memory as they continue preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
Managed by the demanding Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay eased through South American qualifying and finished third at the 2024 Copa América, where they defeated the United States 1-0 in the group stage. La Celeste has lost just three of their last 16 matches, demonstrating the consistency that makes them such a formidable opponent.
Bielsa's 28-man roster blends experience with emerging talent. Veterans like Atlético Madrid captain José María Giménez, Barcelona's Ronald Araújo, Tottenham's Rodrigo Bentancur, and Flamengo playmaker Giorgian de Arrascaeta anchor the squad. However, notable absences include Real Madrid star Federico Valverde, sidelined due to ongoing back issues following a grueling season, along with Darwin Núñez and Lucas Torreira.
The main surprise inclusion is Santiago Homenchenko, a midfielder currently on loan from Pachuca to Querétaro. The Under-20 World Cup champion has impressed Bielsa with four goals in his last five matches, as well as strong defensive contributions, reflecting the coach's commitment to developing young Uruguayan talent.
Against Mexico in Torreón, Uruguay fielded several Brazilian-based players who impressed despite the scoreless result. Palmeiras left-back Joaquín Piquerez and midfielder Emiliano Martínez started alongside Flamengo right-back Guillermo Varela, seamlessly translating their club form to the international stage. Another Palmeiras player, striker Facundo Torres, provided fresh energy after coming on in the second half.
Uruguay's defensive solidity makes them extremely difficult to break down, though without Valverde and Núñez, they lack some attacking punch. Still, for a USMNT side missing Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, and others, Uruguay presents the perfect opportunity to measure their World Cup readiness against elite opposition.
No comments:
Post a Comment