đ„Uruguay see off Uzbekistan, Torres steals the show
In a display of tactical depth that would make his philosophical predecessor Marcelo Bielsa proud, Uruguay's alternative squad navigated a potentially tricky friendly against a World Cup-bound Uzbekistan, securing a 2-1 victory that was far more significant than the scoreline suggests. The match, played in the humid Malaysian air to conclude La Celeste's Asian tour, began as a cagey, midfield-centric affair, a testament to the growing quality of an Uzbek side already qualified for the 2026 World Cup and the experimental nature of the Uruguayan lineup, which was missing its usual constellation of European-based stars.This was not the Uruguay of Darwin NĂșñez and Federico Valverde, but a proving ground for the next generation, a deliberate strategy by Bielsa to stress-test his squad's depth, and the initial stalemate was a predictable outcome of two organized units sizing each other up. The deadlock, however, was spectacularly broken in the 51st minute by Facundo Torres, a moment of individual brilliance that illuminated the contest.The Orlando City SC winger, whose nimble footwork and incisive finishing have drawn earlyâif cautiousâcomparisons to a young Diego ForlĂĄn in his Independiente days, found a pocket of space and delivered a finish of cold-blooded precision, announcing his readiness for the international stage in a manner that analytics alone cannot capture. Just nine minutes later, the lead was doubled by Antonio Sanabria, a striker whose club form for Torino translated seamlessly to the celestial blue shirt, reinforcing the notion that Uruguay's attacking riches run deep beyond the headline acts.As the match seemed to be meandering toward a comfortable conclusion, with both coaches utilizing their benches to grant valuable minutes, Uzbekistan's Jiyanov capitalized on a momentary lapse to pull one back, a reminder of the fine margins at this level and the relentless pressure even a 'weaker' opponent can apply. Yet, in the final moments, it was the classic Uruguayan *garra charrĂșa* that shone throughâa resolute, organized defense, marshaled by the team's veterans, stood firm against a late surge, sealing a victory that was as much about character as it was about technique.This win, coupled with the earlier 1-0 result against the Dominican Republic, caps a profoundly positive tour for Bielsa, one that yielded six points and, more importantly, a treasure trove of data and demonstrated resilience. It confirms that the pipeline of talent flowing through Montevideo remains robust, and that the high-press, possession-dominant system Bielsa is implementing can be executed by the squad's deputies with the same fervor as its starters.For Uzbekistan, the goal was a consolation prize but also a statement of intent ahead of their World Cup adventure, proving they can trade blows with a South American powerhouse. For Uruguay, however, this was a masterclass in squad management and a glimpse into a future where the absence of a star does not spell disaster, but rather an opportunity for a new hero, like the show-stealing Torres, to emerge from the shadows and stake his claim.
JA
Jamie Larson123k2 days ago
nice to see the squad depth actually working for once tbh, torres looks legit
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