Marcelo Bielsa faces a crucial test as his "Uruguay" side attempts to bounce back from their recent setback when they host "Venezuela" in the upcoming World Cup Qualifier.
"We must show character after our disappointment against Paraguay," the Uruguayan coach emphasized ahead of this important fixture.
The pressure is mounting on "La Celeste" following their 2-0 defeat to Paraguay, where despite dominating possession (71%), they managed just one shot on target. Paraguay capitalized with goals from Matías Galarza Fonda and Julio Enciso.
Interestingly, Uruguay's recent matches have been low-scoring affairs, with under three goals occurring in five of their last six games. They've scored just four while conceding six during this period.
"Venezuela", meanwhile, enters this clash with confidence after dispatching Bolivia 2-0 in their previous qualifier. Veteran striker Salomón Rondón found the net, while an own goal from Héctor Cuellar completed the scoring. The visitors controlled the game despite having just 41% possession, generating five shots on target from ten attempts.
By the way, "La Vinotinto" has been surprisingly consistent in front of goal lately, scoring in each of their last six matches for a total of seven goals. However, they've also been leaky at the back, conceding 12 times during the same stretch.
The head-to-head record between these nations remains tight. In their previous six encounters dating back to 2016, Uruguay has won twice, Venezuela once, with three draws. Their most recent meeting in September 2024 ended goalless despite Venezuela creating significantly more chances (20 attempts to Uruguay's 8).
Despite Venezuela's recent attacking form, oddsmakers heavily favor Uruguay with betting lines at 1.5 for a home win compared to 7.5 for an away victory. Can "La Vinotinto" prove the bookmakers wrong and continue their scoring run against a struggling Uruguay side?
