Uruguay edged past Portugal 2-1 as Edinson Cavani’s brace sent the South Americans soaring into the quarter-finals of the World Cup.
La Celeste got off to a sublime start in Sochi when Cavani emphatically nodded in a cross from strike partner Luis Suarez.
The European champions got back on level terms early in the second half when Pepe headed in Raphael Guerreiro’s hanging cross.
They weren’t level for long though, with Cavani curling Uruguay back in front with a superb effort seven minutes later.
Portugal pushed but with Cristiano Ronaldo uninspiring, Uruguay doggedly held on.
Here we rate the Uruguay players:
URUGUAY (4-3-1-2)
Fernando Muslera – 6:
A fairly quiet outing, although his handling was a little suspect. Could do nothing about Pepe’s equaliser.
Martin Caceres – 6:
Playing in a slightly unfamiliar role of right-back, but slotted in superbly. Relatively comfortable evening.
Jose Gimenez – 6:
Stood tall next to Godin but he’ll have harder evenings than this. 100 per cent pass accuracy, but only made 13.
Diego Godin – 6:
Solid and strong without ever having to be called into drastic action. Might have expected to be busier but didn’t really have to withstand a barrage from Portugal as Uruguay were relatively untroubled.
Diego Laxalt – 8:
Another youngster who’s impressed in Russia. Got a start at left-back and put in another stoic performance. Five tackles led Uruguay. Was superb.
Nahitan Nandez – 7:
A willing runner from midfield, always marauding forward in support of his forwards. Belied young years with a mature performance.
Lucas Torreira – 7:
A tenacious display as he put himself about, haranguing Portugal’s midfield and not giving them a moment’s peace. Late cramp was a sign of his efforts. Blocked four shots – more than the rest of his team combined.
Matias Vecino – 6:
Solid if unspectacular but kept watch and helped to shackle Portugal’s key men. A few poor touches but made two tackles and two clearances.
Rodrigo Bentancur – 7:
The 21-year-old has started all four games and has grown in stature with each game. Was fantastic here, his match summed up as he laid the ball into the path of Cavani for his fine curler.
Edinson Cavani – 8:
Unselfish and hard-working in the group, he came alive when his side needed him most. Towering header gave Patricio no chance and sumptuous curled effort made it 2-1.
Luis Suarez – 7:
Perfect cross for Cavani as the dynamic duo teamed up for their side’s crucial opener. Was an absolute pest for Portugal, a perfect performance without getting a goal.
GOAL ⚽️ @ECavaniOfficial with the first time strike 💥 Magnificent response from @Uruguay!
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) June 30, 2018
🇺🇾 2 - 1 🇵🇹#beINRussia #beINFWC #URUPOR pic.twitter.com/itvv3Nxhxp
SUBS:
Cristian Rodriguez – 6:
Came on to add his experience. Solid but fluffed badly late on when presented with a chance to win it.
Cristhian Stuani – 6:
Added some steel as Uruguay looked to hold onto their lead. Two fouls summed up his thinking.
Carlos Sanchez N/A:
Came on to give the tireless Nandez a breather.
