Uruguay national team midfielder Manuel Ugarte spoke in mixed territory after the Celeste's win over Colombia in the South American qualifiers. It said the Uruguayan team deservedly took the three points.
"We deserved to win the game and it would have been a bit unfair if we had tied," said the midfielder, who scored a last-minute goal in the 101st minute after Colombia went 2-2 up in added time. "Sometimes, it is important that such victories happen because it creates a connection between the Uruguayan people and the team. We have to continue to correct and now think about Brazil," said the player who started Friday's game on the substitutes' bench.
When asked about the Uruguayan fans' identification with him and his style of play, he admitted that it was real but commented that he was the one who made that connection. "I think I have an identity with Uruguay. I love it. It's my country. I love playing for the national team. Human affection is important. I enjoy it a lot, and I try to show it on the pitch so that the fans feel familiar," said the Manchester United footballer.
Regarding the development of the match, Ugarte said that he saw that Uruguay was better in the first half. “I think we played a great game, and created chances. They found the goal from a free kick in an isolated situation, which is a credit to them because they have great players. When I came on the field, Bielsa asked me to balance the team, to play closer to Juanfer Quintero or James Rodriguez. Then what happened happened and I am very happy,” he said.
Asked if the players had any thoughts about what happened in the last game against Colombia in the semi-finals of the Copa America, he replied: “Yes, there was a desire to win. "This team always wants to win, press and try to be the hero," he said.
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