Uruguay
Key Players
Squad
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
About
Uruguay, the first-ever World Cup winners in 1930 and two-time champions, arrive at the 2026 tournament under the legendary Marcelo Bielsa. La Celeste carry a footballing heritage that belies their population of just 3.5 million people, making them pound-for-pound the most successful footballing nation in history. Bielsa's intense, high-pressing style has rejuvenated a squad that reached the quarterfinals of Copa America 2024. The squad is anchored by world-class talent at Europe's elite clubs. Federico Valverde at Real Madrid is one of the most complete midfielders in world football, capable of dominating matches with his box-to-box energy and long-range shooting. Ronald Araujo at Barcelona provides an immovable defensive presence, while Manuel Ugarte at Manchester United and Rodrigo Bentancur at Tottenham form a midfield trio of extraordinary quality. Darwin Nunez, now at Al Hilal, remains a lethal goalscorer whose unpredictability can unlock any defense. Drawn into Group H with Spain, Cape Verde, and Saudi Arabia, Uruguay are expected to finish second behind Spain. The match against Spain will be the group's marquee fixture — a clash between two World Cup-winning nations. Saudi Arabia's defensive resilience will require patience, while Cape Verde should be manageable. With Bielsa's tactical genius and a squad mixing European stars with South American grit, Uruguay are genuine dark horses for the knockout stages. A quarterfinal is realistic; a semifinal would not be surprising from a nation that has always punched above its weight on the world stage. The passionate Uruguayan diaspora in North America will provide fervent support.
Group Stage Schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the coach of Uruguay at World Cup 2026?
Marcelo Bielsa is the head coach of Uruguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The legendary Argentine manager, known as 'El Loco,' is revered for his intense tactical approach and has previously managed Athletic Bilbao, Marseille, Leeds United, and the Argentina and Chile national teams.
What group is Uruguay in at World Cup 2026?
Uruguay are in Group H at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Spain, Cape Verde, and Saudi Arabia. Uruguay are expected to finish second behind Spain.
How many World Cups has Uruguay won?
Uruguay have won the FIFA World Cup twice: in 1930 as the first-ever champions (hosting the tournament), and in 1950 in Brazil with the famous 'Maracanazo' victory over the hosts. Uruguay have also won the Copa America a record 15 times.
Who are the key players for Uruguay at World Cup 2026?
Uruguay's key players include Federico Valverde (Real Madrid), Darwin Nunez (Al Hilal), Ronald Araujo (Barcelona), Manuel Ugarte (Manchester United), and Rodrigo Bentancur (Tottenham). The squad features world-class talent at Europe's biggest clubs.
Is Darwin Nunez playing at World Cup 2026?
Yes, Darwin Nunez is in Uruguay's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The former Liverpool striker, now at Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, remains one of Uruguay's most dangerous attacking threats with his pace, power, and unpredictable style.