Head coach of Uruguay: a test against Uzbekistan, new faces and opportunities

Uruguay's head coach, Marcelo Belza, commented on the match against the Dominican Republic at a press conference in Malaysia. According to him, the training camp in Southeast Asia will give the team new experience, and two friendly matches - against the Dominican Republic and Uzbekistan - will become a convenient platform for a thorough review of the squad. "Tomorrow will be a very interesting match. "I am very happy to be in Malaysia," said the Argentinian specialist.

Belsa specifically addressed the opponents. He emphasized that Uzbekistan's entry into the World Cup itself is a great achievement in every respect and an open signal: "The fact that Uzbekistan is going to the World Cup is a sufficient factor. In the Dominican Republic, there are many players playing in Europe. Both opponents demand a high level of play from us." Belsa drew a clear line: the difference between these two teams is not in substitution, but in goals and status: the first qualified for the World Cup, while the second didn't. Nevertheless, he noted that both would be serious trials for Uruguay.

The reason why some leaders were unable to attend the meeting was also explained. José María Jiménez and Darwin Núñez were sidelined due to injury, while Rodrigo Bentancur, Manuel Ugarte and Federico Valverde were not brought to Malaysia this time. Belsa explained the decision by the need for a "large-scale test": "The World Cup is approaching. Every candidate worthy of being summoned must be given a practical opportunity. During these days, we will watch the performance of each player and evaluate those who could be in the national team in June 2026."

His philosophy remains unchanged: high intensity, physical training, and relentless pressing. "I've been in Uruguayan football for two years. At the current training camps, we are refining our style," he concluded briefly. At that moment, Kike also answered the question about Oliveyra's absence: "She's also on the list of candidates. So far, no one has been fully guaranteed, and no one has been completely excluded."

Meanwhile, training camp participant Rodrigo Salazar spoke about the conditions in Malaysia: the climate is warmer, but the team has adapted in just a few days. Regarding the lessons she learned from Belsa: "I'm trying to learn as much as possible. His work in the national team is a great achievement. "Each of us wants to show our maximum here," he said.

As a reminder, the Uzbekistan-Uruguay match will take place on October 13th at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Malacca, Malaysia. The match kicks off at 5:45 PM Tashkent time. Uruguay will also play a friendly match against the Dominican Republic - both matches are an opportunity for Belsa to expand the squad, test new faces, and take a step forward in preparation for the World Cup.