World Cup 2018, Uruguay vs Saudi Arabia: 5 talking points

#5.Knockout stages beckons for Uruguay

2018 FIFA World Cup Group Stage: Uruguay vs Saudi Arabia

The fact that most of the tournament favourites had indifferent results in the opening round makes it really difficult to predict what advantage the group toppers will get.

Either Portugal or Spain awaits in the next round and Tabarez will hope that his charges are a bit more forceful if they are to entertain progress in the tournament.

Tabarez has battled his health problems to lead this generation of players to another major tournament and his players seem to respond to him every time they take the field.

Despite the displays, Uruguay have been able to chalk up the results when it matters. This speaks a lot about the ethos of the team and the manager.

With Tabarez battling chronic neuropathy and his refusal to even let it impinge his work, his integrity is something which players and compatriots all respect.

It’s been more than a decade, 12 years to be exact since he took over - from youth development to the senior side.

And he has delivered success in the form of a run to 2010 World Cup semi-finals as well as a Copa America. And like all great coaches, he has embraced transition which has kept his side’s style from stagnating and easier to predict.

---

What did you think about the match between Uruguay and Saudi Arabia? Sound off in the comments section below!