Another World Cup favourite has struggled early on.
South Korea held Uruguay to a 0-0 tie on Thursday, which likely benefits the Asian squad.
Another early World Cup match ended in a surprise stalemate. Argentina and Germany lost their openers. This suggested another.
Uruguay’s Diego Alonso and South Korea’s Paulo Bento were pleased. Alonso sounded weaker.
“I’m pleased,” Alonso stated. “The final match will decide this group stage,” he said. Second and third games are crucial. This won’t influence our qualification.”
Uruguay faces Portugal in Group H on Monday, while South Korea plays Ghana. Group winners advance to the round of 16.
South Korea, with Son Heung-min wearing a mask to cover a fractured eye socket, appeared more likely to score against Uruguay. South Korea started fast and pressed.
Many South Korean supporters donned Batman masks in sympathy with Tottenham’s Son, who was wounded on Nov. 2. He had early opportunities but tired in the second half.
Bento stated Son was injured. His inactivity lasted a while. He just rejoined the team. Adapting after an injury is normal. Overall, we did well.
Diego Godin hit the post with a header in the 43rd minute, and Federico Valverde in the 89th.
Alonso began Suarez, Nunez, and Pellistri up front, with Valverde and Vecino in midfield. They rarely started with the ball.
Son electrified the fans every time he touched the ball in the first half, but he only managed one danger. South Korea seemed faster than Uruguay, but not more threatening. Hwang Ui-jo missed a close-range shot in the 34th minute.
Uruguay had more possession in the second half but remained conservative, taking less initiative despite having more experienced players.
Martin Caceres was sent off for fouling Son early in the second half.
Alonso replaced Suarez with Edinson Cavani in the 64th minute, slowing the contest until Valverde struck the post.
Alonso: “We fought against Korea in the opening 20 minutes.” “We couldn’t steal the ball. No pressure, no accuracy.
“Second half, we dominated.” We were better, but we lacked attack. More attacks. We tried to be competitive.
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