The Uruguayan Celeste faces a critical scenario. After drawing 2-2 against Cape Verde in Miami, Marcelo Bielsa’s team is against the wall. To advance to the round of 16, they need a victory against Spain in Guadalajara.
A comeback that was not enough
Uruguay began by losing with a free kick goal from Kevin Pina, the first in Cape Verde’s history in a World Cup. They reacted with goals from Maxi Araújo and Agustín Cannobio, and went into the break ahead on the scoreboard.
But in the second half, a defensive error—bad start by goalkeeper Fernando Muslera and confusion with Sebastián Cáceres—allowed Hélio Varela to equalize in the 61st minute. The result left a bitter taste.
“The second goal is what it is: a bad clearance, you arrive late, you try to drown…”, admitted Muslera, who at 40 years old is playing in his fifth World Cup. The mistake brought back memories of Russia 2018, when he failed against Griezmann.
The frustration was reflected in the players’ statements. Araújo said that his goal “is of no use.” Cannobio asked “to put our chests to the bullets and move forward.” Nicolás de la Cruz was more direct:
“You have to eat shit right now.”
Looking at Spain
Marcelo Bielsa assumed responsibility: “I am responsible.” He explained that Uruguay gave up prominence when it had to maintain pressure. Now, the match against Spain – the most demanding of the group – is a final.
The coach confirmed that Ronald Araújo and Giorgian de Arrascaeta are ruled out due to injury. The question is whether Muslera will continue in goal.
Uruguay needs a victory to avoid repeating the elimination in the group stage that it suffered in Qatar 2022. The match will be played in Guadalajara, with the pressure of an entire country.
