Uruguay kickstarted their World Cup with a 0-0 draw against South Korea. They will be facing group leaders Portugal in their next group stage match. Last Word on Sports predicts Uruguay’s lineup and looks at their recent form heading into this fixture.
Uruguay Predicted Lineup vs Portugal
How Uruguay Have Lined-Up Recently
Diego Alonso’s side lined up in a 4-3-3 formation as they have done so in recent months. They are expected to lineup in a similar fashion against Portugal as well. Sergio Rochet starts in goal for the second World Cup match in a row. The backline is expected to be the same, with former Atletico Madrid defender Diego Godin captaining the side.
The highly rated duo of Rodrigo Bentancur and Federico Valverde start in the midfield, as in the first match. Valencia striker Edinson Cavani replaces Luis Suarez in the starting lineup. Darwin Nunez and Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri keep their places in the side after a strong showing against the South Koreans.
Uruguay Injuries to Consider
Barcelona star Ronald Araujo is the only injury concern for Alonso. He is not expected to be involved as he continues his recovery from a thigh injury, although Uruguay are hopeful he’ll be available if they qualify for the knockout stages.
Uruguay Recent Form and Tactics
La Celeste lacked quality throughout the pitch as they battled to a 0-0 draw in the opener. However, they will take inspiration from the fact that they beat the Portuguese in the quarterfinals of the previous editon of the World Cup. “Portugal have a very good squad, they have excellent players, they have a wonderful coach with wide experience,” added Alonso. “That makes them a dangerous team. On the other hand, we also have our own weapons. We will try to win, we will bring our A game.”
The Uruguayans have a no-nonsense, direct style of play. They will rely heavily on Darwin Nuñez’s pace to make runs behind the opposition defense. Nuñez and Pellistri will no doubt try to exploit the injury concerns in the Portuguese backline. Additionally, Joao Cancelo’s attacking desire also makes him a target during counter-attacks.
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On the other hand, Valverde has evolved into the ultimate box-to-box midfielder. He will lead the press as La Celeste aim to pressure the Portuguese defenders and win the ball high up the pitch. Him and Bentancur will also play a key role in winning the midfield battle and protecting the backline. Alonso would have been happy with his team’s defensive performance against South Korea, but neutralizing the star studded Portugal attack is no mean feat.
Uruguay Predicted Lineup
The predicted lineup is as follows:
GK – Sergio Rochet
LB – Mathias Olivera
CB – Diego Godin
CB – Jose Gimenez
RB – Martin Caceres
CM – Rodrigo Bentancur
CM – Federico Valverde
CAM – Matias Vecino
LW – Darwin Nunez
ST – Edinson Cavani
RW – Facundo Pellistri
