CORNERFLICK
Luis Suárez has described Spain as one of the sharpest teams heading into the 2026 World Cup and urged Uruguay to show their character in Friday’s meeting.
The former Barcelona, Atlético Madrid and current Inter Miami forward was speaking at CONMEBOL’s "From Root to Soul" event in Miami, where he discussed Uruguay’s prospects and the looming clash with Spain.
Suárez said the task was clear, even if the pressure is familiar to Uruguay. "We have to beat Spain," he said, adding that Uruguayans are used to high-stakes moments and have often shown their true character on the biggest stages.
He also called on the squad to show courage, self-criticism, unity and the real spirit of Uruguay against a side he described as one of the tournament’s most in-form teams.
Suárez named Spain, Argentina, France and England among the sides most commonly mentioned as World Cup contenders, while saying Messi still leaves him without words and welcoming Neymar’s return to Brazil with delight.