Tue Mar 25 18:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Uruguay Faces High-Altitude Battle Against Bolivia in Crucial World Cup Qualifier

**La Paz, Bolivia** – Uruguay will face a daunting challenge on Tuesday as they travel to El Alto, Bolivia, to play a crucial World Cup qualifier at a dizzying 4,150 meters above sea level. The Celeste arrive in low spirits following a 1-0 home defeat to Argentina on Friday, leaving them fourth in the South American qualifying table with 20 points. This puts them behind Argentina (28), Ecuador (22), and Brazil (21), tied with Paraguay but ahead on goal difference.

The loss to Argentina, the reigning world champions, has added pressure to Uruguay’s already difficult situation. Key Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde expressed the team’s frustration, stating, “We’re sad and angry for not taking the three points.” With five matches remaining, Uruguay are in contention for a World Cup berth, but their recent performances have raised concerns.

Coach Marcelo Bielsa acknowledged the altitude challenge but insisted his team will aim for victory despite the difficulties. He also confirmed that some players who featured against Argentina will be rested for the Bolivia match, with Giorgian De Arrascaeta (adductor injury) and Nicolás De la Cruz ruled out.

Bolivia, currently seventh with 13 points and fighting to secure an intercontinental playoff spot, are also under immense pressure. They are aware of the threat posed by Uruguay’s star-studded squad but are confident of their chances at home, planning to exploit the advantages of playing at altitude, including the increased speed of the ball. Bolivian midfielder Robson Matheus stated, “Uruguay is difficult, they won’t come to defend; they’ll play toe-to-toe.” Team-mate Héctor Cuéllar highlighted their strategy of long-range shots as a key weapon.

The match, to be refereed by Ecuador’s Augusto Aragón, kicks off at 4 PM local time (8 PM GMT). The starting line-ups are as follows:

**Bolivia:** Guillermo Viscarra; Diego Medina, Luis Haquín, José Sagredo, Gabriel Villamil; Robson Matheus, Ramiro Vaca, Roberto Fernández, Héctor Cuéllar; Miguel Terceros, Carmelo Algañaraz. Coach: Oscar Villegas.

**Uruguay:** Sergio Rochet; Naithan Nández, Ronald Araujo, José María Jiménez, Mathías Olivera; Rodrigo Bentancur, Federico Valverde, Maximiliano Araujo, Nicolás Fonseca; Darwin Núñez, Facundo Pellistri. Coach: Marcelo Bielsa.

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