After the loss to Colombia in the semifinals, a wild brawl erupted in the stands between Colombian and Uruguayan supporters. Several Uruguayan players, including Darwin Núñez and Ronald Araújo, climbed into the stands and started fighting with the Colombian fans.
In his latest press conference, Uruguay's coach Marcelo Bielsa lashed out at Copa América, accusing the organization of being dishonest. He argued that security was inadequate but that the governing body chose to investigate the players instead of addressing security flaws.
”Now I've said what I promised the federation I wouldn't say. Now I will be punished.”, said Bielsa.
Losing in the semifinals to a team reduced to 10 men after Colombia's Daniel Muñoz was sent off at the end of the first half, and then dealing with the aftermath of the brawl, leaves a bitter taste for Uruguay. They also criticized the condition of the pitches.
”These are problems everyone knew about beforehand. They say we'll get perfect pitches, and then we get grass that was laid three days ago.”
Meanwhile, things have been much calmer on Canada's side after their 2-0 loss to Argentina in the semifinals. If a third-place finish is a consolation prize for Uruguay, it is a dream result for Les Rouges.
They will face a disorganized Uruguayan team. Following the violent conclusion of Wednesday's semi-final, Uruguay's preparation has been overshadowed by news of possible sanctions for players who entered the stands and confronted supporters.
Canada aims to secure one of its greatest soccer achievements ever when they face Uruguay in the third-place match at the 2024 Copa America. A third-place finish would mark a historic podium for new coach Jesse Marsch and the team. Previously, Les Rouges have never participated in the Copa America and have only competed in two FIFA World Cup tournaments, where they were eliminated in the group stage on both occasions.
”We want to inspire the nation ”, Marsch said the day after Canada’s semi-final defeat. “We want people to remember this as a moment in time that changed the trajectory of what this sport is in Canada.”
Canada might have to play without their captain and best player on Saturday. Alphonso Davies suffered a leg injury in the semi-finals against Argentina and had to leave the pitch in the 71st minute. Although his x-rays showed no serious damage, Davies remains doubtful for the third-place match, and it is uncertain if he will even be able to start.
CANADA predicted lineup vs Uruguay (4-4-2): Crepeau (GK); Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Miller; Laryea, Kone, Eustaquio, Shaffelburg; David, Larin.
Núñez has been an enigma in this tournament—while he has played extremely well in creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates, he has struggled to finish those chances. The potential loss of Manuel Ugarte would be significant, given his high level of performance throughout Copa America.
After serving his one-game suspension in the semi-finals, Nahitan Nandez will return to Uruguay's starting XI for the third-place match at Copa America 2024.
Nicolas de la Cruz, however, will miss Uruguay's final match of the tournament due to a one-game suspension for yellow card accumulation.
URUGUAY predicted lineup vs Canada (4-2-3-1): Rochet (GK); Nandez, Caceres, Gimenez, Olivera; Ugarte, Valverde; Pellistri, De Arrascaeta, Araujo; Nunez.
The distractions for Uruguay off the pitch and Canada’s pursuit of their best-ever result might level the playing field somewhat, but probably not enough to result in a draw that would lead to a penalty shootout, as there is no extra time in Copa América.
With both teams coming off frustrating semifinal losses, the edge will go to the team with more motivation. If Uruguay remains frustrated and picks up unnecessary cards that could lead to a sending-off, there’s a chance for a draw. Otherwise, Uruguay should win this match seven out of ten times.
Despite Uruguay's disappointing performance against Colombia, La Celeste should still manage to defeat Canada, a team with just two wins in their last seven games under Jesse Marsch.
However, Canada should manage to score a goal in their most important game ever.
Formation: 4-3-3 Goalkeeper (GK): Emiliano Martinez (Argentina) - Martinez has been a reliable last line of defense and played crucial roles in penalty shootouts.
Defenders: Nahuel Molina (Argentina) - A solid right-back who contributes both defensively and offensively. Jose Maria Gimenez (Uruguay) - A strong center-back with excellent defensive performances. Yerry Mina (Colombia) - Dominant in the air and strong in tackles. Pervis Estupinan (Ecuador) - A left-back who has proven to be important both in defense and attack.
Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul (Argentina) - Creative and hardworking, has effectively controlled the midfield. James Rodriguez (Colombia) - Revived form with crucial passes and involvement in goals. Federico Valverde (Uruguay) - Dynamic midfielder with both defensive and offensive qualities.
Forwards: Darwin Núñez (Uruguay) - The versatile Liverpool star has simply earned his place in the dream team. Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) - The tournament's top scorer with important goals. Luis Diaz (Colombia) - Dangerous on the wing with his speed and goal-scoring ability.
CANADA v URUGUAY
3.05
URUGUAY TO WIN AND BOTH TEAMS TO SCORE
CANADA v URUGUAY
3.05
URUGUAY TO WIN AND BOTH TEAMS TO SCORE
