Uruguay will take on Colombia for the first time since their ill-tempered Copa America semi-final earlier this year.
Uruguay and Colombia face off in Montevideo on Friday in a highly anticipated World Cup qualifier, a rematch of their heated Copa America semi-final clash over the summer. Following Colombia’s 1-0 victory in that match, tensions flared both on and off the field, leading to suspensions for several Uruguay players.
Since their Copa America exit at the hands of Colombia, Uruguay have faced a challenging period. Under Marcelo Bielsa, they have failed to win or score in their last four matches, with three of those games ending in 0-0 draws and the other a disappointing 1-0 loss to Peru last month. This lack of form has seen them slip further behind Argentina in the standings and closer to the teams chasing the top six qualifying spots.
Bielsa’s tenure has not been without controversy, as criticism from retired star Luis Suarez about the manager’s methods has reportedly unsettled the team. While Uruguay’s recent struggles can be partly attributed to the suspensions following the Copa clash, with all bans now served, Bielsa’s team has no excuses as they aim to secure a fifth-straight World Cup qualification.
Colombia experienced a surprising defeat in October, losing 1-0 to Bolivia despite having a numerical advantage for much of the match. The high altitude at Bolivia’s new home venue, El Alto, seemed to be a major factor, with some Colombian players needing oxygen on the field. However, Colombia bounced back strongly with a resounding 4-0 win over Chile, thanks to goals from Luis Diaz, Jhon Duran, and James Rodriguez.
This victory helped Los Cafeteros maintain their second-place standing in the qualifiers, three points behind Argentina and seven points clear of Bolivia in the playoff spot. Although Colombia have not won in Uruguay since 1973, this may be an opportune time for them to take on La Celeste, considering Uruguay’s current struggles both on and off the field. The Hard Tackle takes a look at how both sides could line up and what tactics they might employ on the day.
Team News & Tactics
Uruguay
Darwin Nunez is available for Uruguay after his ban was lifted by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Although he played last month while his case was under review, he remains one of seven players who risk suspension with another booking in this match. This list includes Manuel Ugarte, Santiago Bueno, Nahitan Nandez, and Jose Maria Gimenez, all of whom must tread carefully to avoid further disciplinary action.
Gimenez, along with Rodrigo Bentancur and Mathias Olivera, returns from a lengthy suspension following the summer’s Copa America chaos. Their return is a significant boost for Marcelo Bielsa’s defence, as he had only one recognised centre-back available in their recent loss to Peru.
In a likely 4-3-3 formation, Sergio Rochet is expected to start as the goalkeeper. The backline will feature Guillermo Varela at right-back, Santiago Bueno and Jose Maria Gimenez as the centre-backs, and Mathias Olivera at left-back, solidifying the defensive unit with experience and defensive strength.
In midfield, Federico Valverde will operate on the right, with Manuel Ugarte in a central role and Rodrigo Bentancur on the left, providing both defensive cover and attacking transitions. The forward line will feature Facundo Pellistri on the right wing, Darwin Nunez as the central striker, and Maximiliano Araujo on the left wing, forming a dynamic trio to pressurize Colombia’s defence.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Rochet; Varela, Santuago Bueno, Gimenez, Olivera; Valverde, Ugarte, Bentancur; Pellistri, Nunez, Maximiliano Araujo
Colombia
Colombia have suffered a setback with the late withdrawal of Luis Sinisterra due to injury. His absence is significant, as he made a substantial impact in the win over Chile, coming off the bench to score and assist. In addition, Juventus full-back Juan Cabal had to withdraw from the squad after tearing his ACL, while midfielders Jefferson Lerma and Yaser Asprilla are also sidelined.
Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran is now firmly ahead of Jhon Cordoba in the attacking pecking order, while Liverpool winger Luis Diaz is Colombia’s most in-form player, with an impressive 11 goal involvements this season.
In a likely 4-2-3-1 formation, Camilo Vargas is expected to start in goal. The back four will feature Daniel Munoz at right-back, Davinson Sanchez and Jhon Lucumi as the centre-backs, and Johan Mojica at left-back, providing a solid defensive structure.
In midfield, Richard Rios and Mateus Uribe will form a double pivot, offering defensive stability and facilitating transitions. In the attacking midfield, Luis Diaz will occupy the left wing, James Rodriguez will take the central playmaking role, and Jhon Arias will play on the right. Up front, Jhon Duran will lead the attack as the lone striker, aiming to capitalise on any opportunities created by Colombia’s creative trio.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Vargas; Munoz, Sanchez, Lucumi, Mojica; Rios, Uribe; Diaz, Rodriguez, Jhon Arias; Duran
Key Stats
- Uruguay have failed to score in their last four World Cup qualifying matches.
- Colombia’s only win in Uruguay came back in 1973. Since then, they have struggled in Montevideo, with the majority of their matches either ending in losses or draws.
- Despite their goalscoring issues, Uruguay have managed to keep three clean sheets in their last four matches.
- Both teams haver scored 13 goals each and conceded six goals apiece in their qualifying campaign so far.
Player to Watch
Luis Diaz
The Liverpool winger is in excellent form, with 11 goal involvements across club and country this season showcasing his ability to both create and score goals. His speed, technical skill, and finishing make him a constant threat on the left flank, and he has been Colombia’s most consistent attacking force.
Against Uruguay’s well-organised defence, Diaz’s dribbling ability and quick decision-making will be crucial in breaking down the backline. His knack for cutting inside and taking on defenders could open up spaces, especially with James Rodriguez and Jhon Duran supporting him in attack. Diaz will look to exploit any defensive lapses and provide the creative spark Colombia need to secure a crucial away victory.
If Diaz can replicate his recent club form, he could be the difference-maker in this tight contest, especially with Uruguay’s struggles in front of goal. Expect him to play a pivotal role in Colombia’s attack, leading the charge as they aim to break Uruguay’s defensive resilience.
Prediction
Uruguay 0-1 Colombia
Colombia come into the match as slight favourites, given Uruguay’s recent form and internal issues. However, Uruguay’s defensive solidity, demonstrated by three 0-0 draws in recent games, suggests they may still make it a tight contest. Colombia’s firepower and confidence may be enough to edge past Uruguay in a close encounter, capitalizing on La Celeste’s recent struggles.