Uruguay scraped through with a 1-0 win in their World Cup opener on Friday, getting a last-gasp goal from defender Jose Gimenez to beat Egypt.
The goal came after 90 minutes of toil from the Uruguayans, giving them a well-earned win.
Here’s how the players fared.
STARTING XI
Fernando Muslera 7 – Had little to do, but the few times he was called upon, his handling and reading of the situation was solid.
Guillermo Varela 6 – A constant threat down the right flank, but, equally, showed why he was deemed surplus to requirements at Manchester United and Real Madrid.
Jose Gimenez 8 – A towering header to give Uruguay a hard-fought win. Was solid defensively as well, although looked a little slow on occasion.
Diego Godin 8 – Typically combative and imposing display from the centre-back. Godin would have been proud with Gimenez’s game-winning header, as well.
Martin Caceres 6 – Found wanting in attack, which was his primary role on Friday given how Egypt were set up.
Nahitan Nandez 6 – Part of the young brigade in Uruguay’s midfield, the 22-year-old was composed, but unthreatening.
Matias Vecino 6 – More is expected of Vecino, who showed why he’s still not trusted with more responsibility at Inter Milan.
Rodrigo Bentancur 6 – Had a lot of possession, but wasted it. Was unable to find a telling pass.
I believe Luis Suarez completed the process of the dive here pic.twitter.com/JMnHtOz4Ai
— Nick Bromberg (@NickBromberg) June 15, 2018
Giorgian de Arrascaeta 6 – Failed to impact the game, despite getting on the ball in promising positions.
Luis Suarez 5 – An utterly disappointing game from the Barcelona man. Had two excellent chances to score, but failed to convert.
Edinson Cavani 7 – Would have had a hat-trick another day, but he lost his duel with Egypt’s keeper. Saw a fierce volley well saved, and hit the post with a late free-kick.
SUBSTITUTES
Carlos Sanchez 7 – His delivery hadn’t been up to scratch, but then he found the perfect free-kick to set up Uruguay’s winner.
Cristian Rodriguez 6 – Brought on to add more cut and thrust to Uruguay’s attacked, but toiled against Egypt’s well-drilled defence.
Lucas Torreira N/A – Came in too late to make an impact and show Arsenal fans what they’re getting.
