World Cup 2026: Marcelo Bielsa warns Uruguay against complacency ahead of Cape Verde clash

Uruguay head coach Marcelo Bielsa has warned his players not to underestimate Cape Verde as La Celeste prepare for a crucial Group H clash that could shape their World Cup destiny.

After being held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Saudi Arabia in their opening match, Uruguay enter Sunday’s encounter knowing that anything less than victory could leave them facing a difficult path to the knockout stages. Meanwhile, Cape Verde arrive full of confidence after producing one of the biggest shocks of the tournament by holding Spain to a historic 0-0 draw in their World Cup debut.

Bielsa has been impressed by what he has seen from the African side and dismissed any suggestion that Uruguay can take the match lightly.

“It’s a physically solid team, technically capable and well prepared. It’s a team with character,” the veteran Argentine coach said ahead of the match.

Cape Verde earned widespread praise for their disciplined display against Spain, with goalkeeper Vozinha producing a man-of-the-match performance and the Blue Sharks demonstrating remarkable defensive organization. Their performance convinced many observers that they are capable of competing with football’s established powers.

Bielsa believes Uruguay’s success will depend on whether his star players can make the difference.

“Our priority is clearly focused on establishing the difference between what Uruguay is as a team and the quality of its individual players.”

The South Americans possess one of the strongest midfields in the tournament, led by Federico Valverde, Rodrigo Bentancur and Manuel Ugarte. However, their biggest problem so far has been converting chances into goals. Uruguay generated numerous opportunities against Saudi Arabia but managed only a single goal despite dominating large stretches of the contest.

Bentancur admitted that improving their finishing is essential if Uruguay are to secure all three points.

“Uruguay will have to score more against Cape Verde.”

The Tottenham midfielder expects a difficult tactical battle against a side that is comfortable defending deep and hitting opponents on the counterattack.

“They counterattack very well, we know they’re a very physical and very fast team. It will be difficult to break through with passes because they have a very strong block.”

“The most important thing will be to use the flanks, move the ball from side to side, and be well positioned when we lose it.”

That assessment mirrors Cape Verde’s approach against Spain, where they defended compactly, denied space between the lines and punished mistakes in transition. Coach Bubista is expected to employ a similar game plan against Uruguay, relying on the pace of his forwards and the heroics of veteran goalkeeper Vozinha.

For Uruguay, the match represents an opportunity to reassert themselves as one of South America’s leading contenders. For Cape Verde, it is another chance to prove that their historic draw against Spain was no fluke.

With qualification implications already looming large, Bielsa knows his side cannot afford another stumble.