As the Copa America heats up, Uruguay is set to face Bolivia at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Here’s an in-depth look at what to expect from this Group C clash, including predictions, team news, and possible lineups.
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Uruguay started their Copa America campaign with a strong 3-1 victory over Panama. This win marked their third consecutive group stage win in the tournament.
Under the guidance of Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay has been playing aggressively, demonstrated by their 11 shots in the first 20 minutes of their opening match. With this momentum, they are now unbeaten in four successive Copa America group stage games and are on a two-match winning streak overall.
Bolivia, on the other hand, suffered a 2-0 defeat to the USA in their first match. Their form in Copa America has been dismal, with a 13-game losing streak in the tournament.
Moreover, Bolivia has only managed one victory in their last 31 Copa America fixtures, dating back to a 3-2 win over Ecuador in 2015.
Head-to-Head
Uruguay has historically dominated this fixture, winning five of their last six encounters against Bolivia in Copa America.
The last victory for Bolivia in this tournament against Uruguay was in 1997.
Team News
Uruguay
There were initial concerns about Ronald Araujo after he was substituted at halftime in their opener.
However, Araujo confirmed that his substitution was due to dehydration and a drop in blood pressure, and he is expected to be available for this match.
Key players Darwin Nunez and Matias Vina, who both scored in the opener, will be crucial for Uruguay.
Possible Starting Lineup: Rochet; Nandez, R. Araujo, Olivera, Vina; Valverde, Ugarte; Pellistri, de Arrascaeta, M. Araujo; Nunez.
Bolivia
Bolivia might face lineup changes after their defeat. Diego Medina and Gabriel Villamil were new inclusions in the starting XI against the USA, replacing Hector Cuellar and Robson Tome.
They will need to improve defensively, as conceding early has been a recurring issue.
Possible Starting Lineup: Viscarra; Je. Sagredo, Haquin, Jo. Sagredo; Justiniano; Medina, Terceros, Saucedo, Villamil; Ramallo, Miranda.
Prediction
Given Uruguay’s recent form and their aggressive playing style under Bielsa, it is likely they will secure a comfortable win against Bolivia.
Bolivia’s defensive frailties and poor record in the Copa America add to the challenges they face in this match.