Does Joaquín Piquerez play today? Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Joaquín Piquerez appears as an important alternative on Uruguay’s left flank for the debut against Saudi Arabia, this Monday, June 15, at 7 pm (Brasília time), at the Hard Rock Stadium, in Miami Gardens. The 27-year-old Palmeiras defender was called up by Marcelo Bielsa and arrives at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a depth piece in the sector, especially with the squad’s history of injuries.
Piquerez, born in Montevideo, is going through a good phase at Verdão, where he has established himself as a full-back with good offensive support and marking. After recovering from an ankle problem, he is looking for his first participation in a World Cup with Celeste, where he already has around 19 caps and experience in the Qualifiers.
With Matías Viña as the main name in the position, Piquerez offers Bielsa tactical options. His height of 1.85m and ability to play aerial balls can be useful both in defense and in crossing for the attack led by Darwin Núñez.
Piquerez gains space with embezzlement and shooting at Palmeiras
Recent absences, such as Ronald Araújo, require versatility in the Uruguayan defense. Piquerez, who replaced Viña in some games for the national team in the past, brings intensity and technical quality to Bielsa’s scheme, which requires high commitment from the full-backs. His recovery completed in recent months leaves him ready to contribute in moments of rotation.
The player, with titles for Palmeiras, arrives motivated to debut in the World Cup and help Uruguay get a good start in Group H, which also includes Spain and Cape Verde.
Saudi Arabia tries new surprise
The Saudis, 61st in the FIFA ranking, dream of a similar upset to the one in 2022 against Argentina. Led by Georgios Donis, they rely on Salem Al-Dawsari’s speed and Firas Al-Buraikan’s eye for goal. Celeste needs to control the left side, where Piquerez can play, to avoid dangerous counterattacks.
The stadium in Miami should have strong Uruguayan fans, favoring the South American team in the search for the first three points.
Where to watch live
The broadcast will be from SBT, with streaming options on CazéTV (YouTube), Globoplay, SporTV and platforms such as Betano and NSports.
Probable lineups
Saudi Arabia(4-4-2): Mohammed Al-Owais; Saud Abdulhamid, Hassan Al-Tambakti, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Moteb Al-Harbi; Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Mohamed Kanno, Musab Al-Juwayr, Salem Al-Dawsari; Firas Al-Buraikan, Saleh Al-Shehri. Coach: Georgios Donis.
Uruguay(4-4-2 or 4-3-3): Fernando Muslera; Guillermo Varela, Sebastián Cáceres, Mathías Olivera, Matías Viña (or Joaquín Piquerez); Manuel Ugarte, Rodrigo Bentancur, Federico Valverde, Maximiliano Araújo; Darwin Núñez, Federico Viñas. Coach: Marcelo Bielsa.
