Criticism of Marcelo Bielsa looks set to continue after Uruguay left it as late as possible in a dramatic 3-2 win against Colombia in round 11 of CONMEBOL’s World Cup Qualifying section.
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Scorers: Sánchez 57′ (own goal), Aguirre 60′, Ugarte 90+11′; Quintero 31′, Gómez 90+6′
In a first half that was defined by passive attacking play from both sides, Colombia finally broke the deadlock in the 31st minute thanks to Juan Fernando Quintero, who snuck a direct free kick past Sergio Rochet at the near post from a tight angle.
A determined Uruguay would battle back in the second half, however, as La Celeste looked to close ranks and leapfrog Colombia in the table, first drawing level through an own goal by Davinson Sánchez.
Uruguay would pull ahead just three minutes later thanks to a strike by Rodrigo Aguirre, who converted from inside the box after MathÃas Olivera turned provider, dancing his way through two defenders before slipping his effort past Camilo Vargas.
But for all their efforts, the home side would be made to fight again when Andrés Gómez restored parity in the sixth minute of added time, giving Colombia hope of a deserved point on their travels.
Bielsa’s troops would have the final say, however, when Manchester United’s Manuel Ugarthe turned hero on the night with a match-winner in the eleventh minute of added time.
Uruguay now jump up to second in the table thanks to a superior goal difference over Colombia and sit just three points adrift of Argentina after their loss against Paraguay, having put to rest a
Up next for Uruguay is a midweek date with Brazil while Colombia plays host against Ecuador.
📸 Ernesto Ryan – 2024 Getty Images
