World Cup 2010: Uruguay vs. South Korea Preview
By Ty Duffy
Form: La Celeste were the clear class of Group A. Uruguay stuffed France with resolute defending in the first match. They then opened up, fielded Luis Suarez and Edison Cavani up front, with Diego Forlan in the trequartista role behind them, and beat Mexico and South Africa decisively. The Uruguayans showed tremendous versatility. They did not surrender a goal.
Matchup: Uruguay are clear favorites. They were admirable in the group stage, and may not have reached full stride yet. Their firm core at the back should allow their three forwards freedom to work. Oscar Tabarez planned each match flawlessly. They can trouble anyone.
South Korea is known for their passing, but they have struggled holding the ball in the opposition half. They will be more affected by the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium pitch, so poor the teams have been unable to practice on it. South Korea must cut off Diego Forlan’s linkup play and make another Uruguayan beat them. They need to continue their set piece efficiency. Three of their five group stage goals came from them.
Prediction: Uruguay handled quick, skillful teams in the group stage without incident. South Korea don’t have enough up front to pierce through Uruguay’s defense. 2-0 Uruguay.
Opportunity: This quarter of the bracket – Uruguay, South Korea, USA, Ghana – is the first in World Cup history not to have a European team. One of these dark horses will reach the semifinals.
[Photo via Getty]