Uruguay and Colombia are set to clash this Friday at Estadio Centenario for the 11th round of the South American World Cup qualifiers. Uruguay recently faced Ecuador at the same venue, ending in a goalless draw, while Colombia showcased an impressive performance, defeating Chile 4-0 in Barranquilla.
Coached by Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay has not had the best run since Colombia eliminated them in the semifinals of this year’s Copa América. However, they are eager to redeem themselves against their rivals. For this match, Bielsa will benefit from the return of several key players, including Bentancur, Núñez, Valverde, Giménez, and Rochet, who have served their suspensions imposed by CONMEBOL.
On the flip side, Colombia, under the guidance of Argentine coach Néstor Lorenzo, is currently a standout team in the qualifiers, closely competing with Lionel Messi’s Argentina for the top spot. Unfortunately, they will be without Jefferson Lerma due to injury and Jhon Córdoba due to suspension, though Lorenzo has welcomed back Daniel Muñoz for this double matchday.
The match is scheduled for Friday, November 15, at Estadio Centenario in Montevideo. U.S. viewers can catch the game at 3:00 PM Pacific Time, 6:00 PM Central Time, and 7:00 PM Eastern Time, available on Fanatiz and FIFA+. Mexican audiences can watch it on Fox Sports and FIFA+.
Possible line-ups for the match are as follows:
**Uruguay:** Rochet; Nández, Giménez, Bueno, Olivera; Valverde, Ugarte, Bentancur; Pellistri, Araújo, Núñez.
**Colombia:** Vargas; Muñoz, Lucumí, Sánchez, Mojica; Castaño or Uribe, Ríos, Arias, Rodríguez; Luis Díaz and Durán.
This match marks an important moment in the South American qualifiers, which have proven to be highly competitive so far. Both teams will be looking to secure vital points, with Uruguay aiming to leverage home advantage and Colombia striving to maintain their current momentum.
Historically, the rivalry between Uruguay and Colombia is significant; they have faced each other 46 times since their first encounter in 1945. Uruguay holds the upper hand with 20 victories compared to Colombia’s 13, and 12 matches have ended in a draw. While historical records might favor Uruguay, both teams are poised and determined to claim the win, making this encounter exciting for fans and players alike.
Overall, this match not only represents a battle for qualification points but also an opportunity for both teams to showcase their skill and determination as they aim for the World Cup. As each team brings their unique strengths to the pitch, fans can look forward to an enthralling display of South American football.