Valverde’s Uruguay disappoint in Argentina defeat

Fede Valverde played 82 minutes in Uruguay’s disappointing 1-0 defeat to Argentina on Sunday night.

Coach Oscar Tabarez appeared to line out in a 4-4-2 with Valverde the far right sided midfielder in the scheme, though he had such precious little of the ball in the first half that he spent much of it roaming across the midfield and defence.

Argentina have created habit of opening games well and fading as the match went on and Uruguay were no exception to this. Lionel Messi’s side were fierce in their press early on and Uruguay did little to help themselves, getting caught in possession in their own half on multiple occasions. The opening goal arrived in the 12th minute after Argentina played a corner short and Messi’s spectacular cross found Guido Rodriguez at the far post. His header rebounded into the net and gave Argentina a well deserved advantage.

Following the goal, Uruguay finally decided to show up, largely thanks to the effort of Edison Cavani. The United frontman dropped deep to give his midfield a much needed attacking outlet and was at the heart of much of their good attacking play to end the first 45.

Following the halftime break, Valverde was moved to a more central, disciplined position. To the surprise of no one (following this website anyway), he instantly became more involved in spewing long passes into the Argentine half. Encouraging as this was, the attacking forces of Luis Suarez and Cavani wasn’t proving enough to break Argentina down for a decent chance. If anything, Argentina looked the more dangerous side and would of been home and dry had the all star frontline been able to produce some better attacking decisions.

Valverde’s night finished in the 82nd minute with Real’s midfielder showing a little bit of discomfort with his ankle. The sub seems likely to just be a precaution or simply a tactical (which, if true, didn’t work out) and will undoubtedly be fit for a crucial face off with Chile on Monday.