The Uruguay team faces Spain in a crucial clash in the group stage of the World Cup, scheduled for next Friday (26), at 9 pm (Brasília time), in Akron, in the United States. Coach Marcelo Bielsa may have an important absence: right-back Varela, a Flamengo player and a key player in the first two games against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde, did not participate in training on Monday and Tuesday (23). Uruguay’s last World Cup victory without Luís Suárez on the field dates back to 1990, adding historical weight to the team’s current challenge.
On the other hand, there is an expectation that José Maria Giménez will return to the squad. The defender, considered a starter, was absent from the first two rounds due to an injury. Information released by the newspaper “El País” in Uruguay suggests that Marcelo Bielsa plans to make significant changes for the decisive clash, and the reinstatement of the Atlético de Madrid defender is a concrete possibility.
If Giménez’s return is confirmed, the coach may opt for some tactical formations. One of the options is to replace Juan Manuel Sanabria, moving Mathías Olivera to the left flank. Another alternative would be Giménez’s entry as third defender, playing alongside Sebastián Cáceres and Olivera, which would allow the use of two wingers.
The Uruguayan team arrives for this clash after two draws, one with Saudi Arabia and the other with Cape Verde. Now, the challenge is against the strong Spain team, led by young Lamine Yamal, who demonstrated his offensive power by beating Saudi Arabia 4-0 in the previous game, after a goalless draw against Cape Verde in the first round.