Uruguay vs. Bolivia: World Cup Qualifying Showdown

In this KnowFootball preview, we delve into the upcoming clash between Uruguay and Bolivia, featuring predictions, team news, and potential lineups.

Uruguay’s Triumphs Against Giants

Recent Form

Uruguay, after a mixed start in the CONMEBOL qualifying section, orchestrated a remarkable turnaround by defeating South American giants Brazil and Argentina in consecutive qualifiers. The impressive wins catapulted them to second place in the standings, just two points behind leaders Argentina.

Key Player: Darwin Nunez

Darwin Nunez’s stellar performances, marked by crucial goals, have been instrumental in Uruguay’s recent success. His contributions extend beyond the memorable victories, including an impressive 2-2 draw against Colombia.

World Cup Aspirations

With a potential fifth successive World Cup finals appearance on the horizon, Uruguay has effectively recovered from their group stage exit in Qatar.

Bolivia: A Challenging Opponent

Historical Struggles

Bolivia, known for being one of the weakest away sides in international football, poses an ideal opponent for Uruguay, especially after their triumphs against football powerhouses.

Away Woes

Bolivia’s historical away struggles are evident in their last 66 away World Cup qualifiers, where they garnered a mere nine points. Their last competitive qualifying win outside their home country dates back to 1993.

Recent Boost

Despite their away challenges, Bolivia gained confidence with a significant win against Peru, lifting them off the bottom of the standings after four initial defeats.

Key Statistics

Team Forms

• Uruguay World Cup Qualifying – South America form:
  • W
  • L
  • D
  • W
  • W
• Uruguay form (all competitions):
  • W
  • W
  • L
  • D
  • W
  • W
• Bolivia World Cup Qualifying – South America form:
  • L
  • L
  • L
  • L
  • W
• Bolivia form (all competitions):
  • L
  • L
  • L
  • L
  • L
  • W

Team News and Possible Lineups

Uruguay

• Injury Concerns: Nahitan Nandez
• Surprise Omissions: Joaquin Piquerez, Lucas Olaza, Santiago Bueno
• Returning Stars: Jose Maria Gimenez, Rodrigo Bentancur
• Potential Starters: Luis Suarez, Giorgian De Arrascaeta

Bolivia

• Clean Sheet Boost: Jose Sagredo
• Key Goalscorer: Henry Vaca
• Notable Omission: Boris Cespedes

Predicted Lineups

Uruguay

Formation: 4-3-3

• Goalkeeper: Rochet
• Defenders: R Araujo, Caceres, Gimenez, Olivera
• Midfielders: Ugarte, Valverde, De la Cruz
• Forwards: Pellistri, Nunez, De Arrascaeta

Bolivia

Formation: 4-3-3

• Goalkeeper: Viscarra
• Defenders: Quinteros, Haquin, Sagredo, Fernandez
• Midfielders: Justiniano, R Vaca, Miguelito
• Forwards: H Vaca, Marcelo Moreno, Algaranaz

Match Prediction: Uruguay 4-0 Bolivia

Bolivia’s historical woes as travelers make it unlikely for them to pose a significant challenge to Uruguay. The hosts, riding high on confidence, are expected to secure a convincing victory. However, Uruguay must guard against complacency, as securing top spot is within reach if Argentina falters against Brazil.