Uruguay emerged victorious from Group C at the Copa América with a hard-fought 1-0 win over the United States. Assistant coach Diego Reyes, speaking in manager Marcelo Bielsa’s absence due to suspension, emphasized the team’s adaptability and resilience as key takeaways from the match.
This victory secured top spot in the group and a quarter-final clash with the runner-up from Group D, currently contested by Brazil and Costa Rica. Uruguay enters the knockout stage with a perfect record, having won all three group matches and scoring eight goals. Bielsa’s high-pressing, attack-minded style has instilled confidence, as evidenced by their impressive recent form.
However, the American team initially tested Uruguay’s resolve. The first 25 minutes saw the United States dominate possession, forcing Uruguay to defend deep. Reyes acknowledged the initial struggles, stating, “We are a team designed to be protagonists… So when we don’t have the ball, that’s something we don’t like.”
He continued, praising the team’s ability to adjust: “Once that was corrected, we were able to recover the ball and then we were able to express our game better and we could see the Uruguay we all want.”
Looking forward, Uruguay faces a more challenging task. With Brazil and Colombia likely to progress from Group D, Reyes acknowledges the caliber of potential opponents: “They are two great opponents. Colombia is living a very good moment presently. Brazil, we all know they are great.”
A meticulous approach to the upcoming quarter-final is planned. “We’re going to start analysing in-depth as of tomorrow… and we will try to come up with a game plan that is favourable for us,” Reyes stated.
The experience against the United States served as a valuable test. Reyes concluded, “This is a good thing because the upcoming matches will look a lot like this… There’s always things to correct, and that’s what we are going to try to do.”
Uruguay enters the knockout stages with confidence but also recognizing the need for continual improvement. Their adaptability and ability to respond to pressure will be crucial as they face the Copa América’s elite.
