Uruguay eyes Arrascaeta return for Spain showdown
Giorgian De Arrascaeta remains sidelined for the match against Cape Verde, but Uruguay hopes to have him available for the crucial group stage finale against Spain.
Uruguay midfielder Giorgian De Arrascaeta continues his rehabilitation following a calf injury sustained shortly before the World Cup. The player will miss the team's second group stage match against Cape Verde, scheduled for June 21.
The coaching staff, led by Marcelo Bielsa, remains optimistic about the 32-year-old playmaker's recovery. The goal is to have him fit for the decisive clash against Spain on June 26.
Uruguayan FA official Jorge Casales explained that while progress is positive, the medical team is taking a cautious approach.
Giorgian was injured three or four days before the start of the World Cup. The objective is for him to be available against Spain. It is premature to guarantee his return, and it will depend on our situation after the Sunday match. Jorge Casales
The absence of De Arrascaeta has been felt by the squad. Known for his ability to dictate play and connect the midfield to the attack, his creative spark was missing during Uruguay's opening 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia. The team struggled to convert possession into clear scoring chances without their primary playmaker.