The United States Men’s National Team kicked off the 2024 Copa America with a win against Bolivia (2-1) and a loss to Panama (1-2). Their chances of reaching the quarterfinals are hanging by a thread, with a potential need for help in the other Group C match. Uruguay, a team that has won the Copa America title 15 times, is looking to upset the hosts and secure first place. The game will take place at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, a venue with a seating capacity of 76,416 and a natural NorthBridge® Bermudagrass surface. This will mark the ninth meeting between the two nations, with both teams holding a 2-2-4 record.
Uruguay, currently ranked 14th in the FIFA rankings, is led by manager Marcelo Bielsa, who took over the role in May of 2023. Despite winning their opening matches in the Copa America against Panama (3-1) and Bolivia (5-0), Bielsa remains focused on the challenges ahead. He has named a squad of 26 players for the tournament, with the team consisting of players who are based abroad, including 14 players from European clubs. Notable absences from the squad include Matías Vecino, who retired from international duty, and Facundo Torres, who was left out of the tournament.
Bielsa has adapted his tactics for the Copa America, shifting from his usual 3-1-3-3 formation to a more traditional 4-3-3 setup. The team is known for their aggressive style of play and emphasis on teamwork. They utilize a high-energy strategy that focuses on quick attacks and overloading areas on the field.
The projected Uruguay starting lineup is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Sergio Rochet, Santiago Mele, Franco Israel
Defenders: José Giménez, Sebastián Cáceres, Ronald Araújo, Guillermo Varela, Mathías Olivera, Matías Viña, Nicolás Marichal, Lucas Olaza
Midfielders: Manuel Ugarte, Rodrigo Bentancur, Nicolás de la Cruz, Nahitan Nández, Giorgian de Arrascaeta, Federico Valverde, Maximiliano Araújo, Emiliano Martínez
Forwards: Luis Suárez, Facundo Pellistri, Agustín Canobbio, Brian Rodríguez, Darwin Núñez, Cristian Olivera, Brian Ocampo
Each player brings a unique set of skills to the team, with Uruguay aiming to make a strong impact in the Copa America. Marcelo Bielsa’s tactical adjustments and the team’s collective effort will be crucial as they face tough competition in the quest for the title.
