Tonight sees group H action underway as Uruguay take on Portugal at 7pm and hope to claim the join top spot, only behind by 1 goal on goal difference, Uruguay boss Diego Alonso states: “Portugal are strong but we are too dangerous”.
Uruguay look to improve from their last disappointing goalless result against South Korea on Thursday, with a win tonight almost securing their round 16 place in a tie breaker game against Ghana. Portugal are favourites tonight, but Diego Alonso and his men are aware of their chaotic display against Ghana, a game that nearly slipped for Ronaldo and Co, as Ronaldo watched Ghana forward Osaman Bukari comically mock his signature “sui”, celebration.
Diego Alonso and his men remain hopeful ahead of the fixture, with midfielder claiming: “the two time champions are relishing their status as underdogs”, as they prepare to face a strong Portugal squad. Speaking of Portugal, Portuguese veteran Pepe returns for Seleção das Quinas, after Danilo Pereira suffered a broken ribs in training, Portugal manager says “Pepe will play, he is a monster”, tonight would mark his 130th appearance for his country.
Bentancur was quick to praise his former teammate ahead of the fixture too: “Playing him will be a good test for us, but we also have our weapons. They have experience, we do too, and we’ll try to attack their weaknesses”. Uruguay have a fully fit squad minus Araujo, who is out after a thigh surgery in September, featuring a solid midfield of Bentancur, Vecino and Valverde, who will cause serious issues for Portugal after his solid performance against South Korea that granted him man of the match.