Uruguay profile – mean defence and potent poachers a deadly mix
Published:Uruguay’s quarter-final clash with Ghana will be their first since 1970, and with both defence and attack in excellent form, the South Americans are favourites to win the tie.
Goalkeeper
Still just 24 years old, Fernando Muslera has established himself as Uruguay’s first choice goalkeeper having been a Serie A regular for Lazio.
With quick reflexes and a sound understanding with his defenders, Muslera has kept three clean sheets from four World Cup matches, and another shut-out against Ghana is available at evens.
Defence
Uruguay topped Group A without conceding a single goal, and they have leaked just four goals from their last eight fixtures. Their match against Ghana is 6/4 to have a total goal count under 1.5.
Key to this formidable run has been the form of captain Diego Lugano and Diego Godin in central defence, and Jorge Fucile at left-back.
All three have Champions League experience (at Fenerbache, Villarreal and Porto respectively), and their big match pedigree will be integral to their hopes of subduing Ghana.
Midfield
Diego Perez and Alvaro Pereira have been irrepressible in midfield, working tirelessly to protect what is already an authoritative backline.
Pereira also chipped in with a goal during Uruguay’s 3-0 against South Africa, and he is 6/1 to score at any time against Ghana.
The crucial link between midfield and attack is Palermo forward Edinson Cavani, who has been a constant threat on the right wing.
Cavani provided the assist for Luis Suarez’s winner against Mexico, and he is 5/2 to go it alone by scoring against Ghana at any point during the game.
Attack
Luis Suarez and Diego Forlan have formed what is arguably the World Cup’s most potent strike partnership, scoring between them five of Uruguay’s six goals.
Suarez is a 12/1 Golden Shoe contender with three goals, while Atletico Madrid’s marksman Forlan is still in with a chance at 20/1.
Will Uruguay need more than 90 minutes to beat Ghana? They are 7/1 to win after extra-time. See the full Uruguay vs Ghana market.
