FIFA World Cup preview: Uruguay
Uruguay has won the FIFA World Cup twice before and is well positioned to press for a third title.
The South Americans were lucky enough to score hosts Russia in their group. So progression should be a mere formality.
Uruguay should top this group and have a real chance to go deep into the knockout stages.
Portugal or Spain will likely stand between them and the final, which will be a tantalising match.
A roster that features a powerful blend of youth and experience should see Uruguay become a real threat for the World Cup this time around.
The draw for Uruguay
Egypt, June 15
Saudi Arabia, June 21
Russia, June 26
The star player
Ordinarily, Luis Suarez would get this honour in a canter. But this time around we are going with Edinson Cavani.
While Suarez is still in champagne form, Cavani has scored at least 40 goals in each of the last two seasons.
He is actually in better form than Suarez which means Uruguay have a formidable 1-2 punch up front.
Inter Milan midfielder Matias Vecino should be able to provide plenty of good service as well.
What needs to go right
Complacency could be an issue, but there is no reason why Uruguay can't sweep their group and easily finish top.
The job gets harder if they slip up and lose a game to finish second.
Getting past Portugal or Spain will be no easy task, but if Uruguay can manage it they will be on track for a place in the final.
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FIFA World Cup previews: Saudi Arabia, Panama, Australia, South Korea, Sweden, Russia, Tunisia, Iran, Japan, Iceland, Senegal, Morocco, Denmark, Egypt, Nigeria, Switzerland, Poland, Serbia, Peru, Mexico, Colombia, Portugal, Croatia, England
About the Author Josh Alston
Josh Alston is a hack with over 12 years industry experience, covering sport across all codes for newspapers and online agencies. Known to frequent grade matches because of their cheap tinnies. Eventually graduated with a Bachelor of Journalism and a Masters in sitting on the hill when the local cricket side was playing. Softball premiership winner, rugby league legend in Year 10 and no stranger to Doomben Racecourse.