Uruguay triumphed over Colombia with a thrilling 3-2 victory in a World Cup qualifying match held in Montevideo on November 15, 2024. The match featured an electrifying finish, wherein both teams scored late goals, demonstrating the resilience and tenacity of the Uruguayan side.
Despite initially trailing, Uruguay managed to equalize twice, showcasing their fighting spirit. The game appeared destined for a 2-1 victory for Uruguay with just minutes remaining. However, a dramatic late goal from Colombia’s Andrés Gómez equalized the match, setting the stage for a heart-stopping conclusion.
In a historic moment for the first World Cup stadium, the “garra charrúa” spirit emerged as Federico Valverde made a critical play, leading to Manuel Ugarte’s winner that delighted the nearly 40,000 fans. Head coach Marcelo Bielsa praised the match, stating that victories like this heal and bring together the community close to the national team, emphasizing the players’ determination to secure the win after the equalizer.
Uruguay had been initially on the back foot after an own goal by Davinson Sánchez following a set piece by Colombia’s Juan Fernando Quintero. Colombia dominated the early stages, but Uruguay’s comeback was sparked by a series of clever tactics from Bielsa, including the impactful debut of Rodrigo Aguirre, who scored the pivotal goal after coming off the bench.
Aguirre expressed his excitement about the perfect night, celebrating not only his debut but also breaking a winning drought for the national team. His performance, along with a fortunate own goal from Sánchez early in the game, highlighted the fierce competition and the pressure on the players.
The final moments of the match featured a frantic exchange of attacks, with Uruguay eventually sealing the win thanks to a well-coordinated effort culminating in Aguirre’s classy finish. This marks Uruguay’s first home win since November 2023, allowing them to reclaim the second position in the qualifying standings alongside Colombia but with a superior goal difference.
Moving forward, Uruguay must defend their position in their next match against Brazil, while Colombia will host Ecuador. The outcome of these matches will be crucial in the race for World Cup qualification, but fans of Uruguay can take heart in the team’s fighting spirit and ongoing commitment to succeed.
This thrilling encounter reaffirms Uruguay’s potential in the competition as they demonstrate resilience and tactical prowess — qualities that could prove vital in future games.