World Cup 2026: Uruguay seeks to improve image against surprising Cape Verde

Uruguay, also known as La Celeste, is under pressure to improve its image in the World Cup when it faces Cape Verde on Sunday. This comes after a disappointing 1-1 debut draw against Saudi Arabia. The team must perform better than the slow, uninspired squad that struggled in the first half of its opening match.

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It is a team of character.

Uruguay's coach, Marcelo Bielsa, is not underestimating their next opponent. The Argentine described Cape Verde as "a physically solid, technically apt, and well-prepared team. It is a team of character." Bielsa emphasized the need for Uruguay to establish clear differences between its team identity and the quality of its individual players.

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The priority ours is clearly focused on establishing differences between what Uruguay is as a team and the quality of its individualities.

The "Loco" Bielsa faces the challenge of improving his team's lack of effectiveness, which required 27 shots to score just one goal against Saudi Arabia. A potential solution could involve bringing in substitutes who energized the team in the second half of the previous match. Midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur acknowledged that Uruguay "must convert more" against Cape Verde.

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we must convert more

Cape Verde, a nation of approximately 520,000 inhabitants, enters its first World Cup with nothing to lose and a desire to continue dreaming. Their impressive 0-0 draw against Spain, one of the tournament favorites, demonstrated their resilience. The team, supported by a solid defensive block, frustrated Spain's attacks and maintained concentration throughout the match. Goalkeeper Vozinha, who celebrated his 40th birthday recently, made several crucial saves and became an unexpected hero, gaining millions of Instagram followers after the game.

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We have always said that we wanted everyone to see how our team plays. It has been a simile of our country, we play with resilience and overcome obstacles.