Uruguay beats Venezuela 2-0 and edges closer to 2026 World Cup Qualification

Uruguay claimed a crucial 2-0 victory over Venezuela at Centenario Stadium in Montevideo in the South American 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. The first goal was scored by Rodrigo Aguirre's header off a corner kick in the 42nd minute, and Giorgian De Arrascaeta added the second in the early stages of the second half. Marcelo Bielsa's side clearly dominated the match and ended a four-game losing streak.

With this victory, Uruguay is firmly marching towards the 2026 World Cup, effectively earning a ticket to the intercontinental playoff in effect. The victory was well-deserved as a confidence builder for La Celeste, which had been showing doubts in its previous performances. Bielsa was happy with the way the team performed and the way they were able to maintain the intensity in the 90-minute playing time.

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Uruguay defeats Venezuela 2–0, Playoff hopes fade for La Vinotinto

For its part, Venezuela suffered a bitter setback for hopes of making it to the World Cup for the first time. The defeat complicates their situation in the table, and they are now in the direct battle for seventh place, which gives access to the playoffs. La Vinotinto was unable to maintain the pace of the match and was outperformed in almost every area of ​​the playing field.

Uruguay remains firmly in third position with 24 points behind Argentina and Ecuador, while Venezuela remains seventh with 18. Bolivia, who caused the surprise with a victory on this round of matches, is close on Fernando Batista's team's heels, placing the pressure in the final rounds of the qualifying.

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Uruguay dominates Venezuela as World Cup race tightens ahead of final qualifiers

Throughout the match, Uruguay set the pace from the start, creating some scoring opportunities. Aguirre was dominant in the air, and De Arrascaeta showed experience in scoring goals. Venezuela, on the other hand, was far away and lacked an attacking response, thus making it easy for the home side to control the game.

Before the approaching matches, Uruguay will seek to seal its own direct qualification for the World Cup in the approaching rounds. Venezuela, on the other hand, must stack wins and count on outcomes from other sides if it is to stay in contention for the World Cup. The war for the tournament's qualifying spots is ongoing, with plenty of drama and tension to be provided until the second last matchday.