The Barcelona and Real Madrid stars squared off in the encounter only for Paris Saint-Germain hitman Edinson Cavani to decide it, scoring the only goal in Uruguay’s win over Wales.
That’s not to say that Bale and Suarez didn’t feature prominently though. In fact, their respective performances are worth delving into.
LUIS SUAREZ
Looking back on this game, Suarez will feel disappointed not to add to his 50 international goals for Uruguay. The striker started up front alongside Cavani and the two-pronged attack posed a constant threat for the Welsh defence.
Suarez got on the end of a low cross as early as in the second minute but was only able to strike the upright from 12 yards out. Much to his chagrin, the woodwork would deny him on a second occasion later in the first half.
His relentless pressure on the defence was rewarded when he was presented with a sloppy back-pass but having rounded Wayne Hennessey, he struck the post again with an empty net at his mercy.
As if that wasn’t enough to leave the Barcelona star grinding his teeth, a composed finish in the second half was ruled out for offside. However, it’s his link-up play that came to the fore and made an impact.
His cross in the first half nearly found Cavani from close range. For the goal, he peeled away from James Chester excellently before playing in Cristian Rodriguez who laid it on a plate for Cavani.
Rating – 7/10
Luis Suarez (l) should’ve got on the score sheet
GARETH BALE
Bale made a bright start to the game and promptly put Wales on the front foot with a blocked shot from inside the box in the opening minute. The Real Madrid star consistently threatened to burst into life with a few fine touches and spectacular moves but every attempt to drive his side forward eventually fell apart.
Following his hat-trick against China, the South Americans were no doubt wary of the Welshman as well. He was guilty of trying to force the issue though and on one occasion, his intercepted cross-field pass nearly resulted in a goal for Uruguay.
While he was permitted to plenty of time on the ball against China, dwelling on it in this encounter swiftly saw him closed down and snuffed out. He perhaps could have been more diligent in possession but it has to be said that he didn’t receive too much assistance either.
The Welsh forward line weren’t exactly a picture of cohesion and were too far apart for long periods to engage in any kind of link-up play. Instead, Wales restricted to crosses and shots from range to try and get back on level terms.
Rating – 6/10
Gareth Bale (r) didn’t have time on the ball
