Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa has praised his side’s desire to secure victory in their WC qualifier, following Manuel Ugarte’s 101st-minute goal to seal a 3-2 win over Columbia, Soccernet.football reports.
The 69-year-old had faced mounting pressure as La Celeste endured a five-match winless streak since finishing third at the Copa America.
However, the win in Montevideo propelled Uruguay to second place in the CONMEBOL qualification group, ahead of Colombia on goal difference, after an exhilarating five-goal encounter.
Colombia seemed to have secured a late draw with Andres Gomez’s 96th-minute goal, but Ugarte’s volley, following a knock-down from Facundo Pellistri, restored Uruguay’s lead moments after the restart.
“Victories like today are healing in the sense that they bring everyone closer, around a feeling as strong as Uruguay’s connection with the national team,” Bielsa said after the game as per beIN Sports.
“It was a very exciting match, and the players’ determination to secure the win was evident.
“They have a well-oiled style of play; they defend, press, manage the ball, and have individual brilliance, which makes them a tough rival to beat.
“It’s not easy to win against this opponent, as they have physically gifted, technically proficient players across all positions, many of whom can change the game’s dynamics.”
Bielsa and his charges have a date with Brazil next and despite the Selecao’s recent struggles, they Uruguay boss is fully aware of the challenge that awaits his side in Salvador on Tuesday.
“If Colombia is an athletically strong team with an offensively capable system that creates danger and has organisation in possession, Brazil has that and more,” he said.
“We will try to control the ball in their half and not ours. Sometimes we succeed, and sometimes we don’t, like against Venezuela.”