Uruguay Heads Into Key Qualifiers Without Valverde and Núñez

Uruguay’s ambitions for the 2026 World Cup qualification have been dealt a double blow. As reported by AS.com, Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has been ruled out due to lumbosciatica—a nerve-related condition that limits his mobility and performance. Meanwhile, Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez will be absent as he serves a suspension confirmed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, leaving Uruguay short of firepower in a critical stage of the campaign.

Coach Marcelo Bielsa now faces the challenge of reshaping his squad without two of its cornerstones. La Celeste, already struggling for consistency, hasn’t tasted victory since November and has slipped down the qualification table. The upcoming fixtures—starting with Paraguay in Asunción—are not just tests of depth, but of direction. A strong response is essential if Uruguay hopes to stay on track for a place in the next World Cup.

Paraguay, on the other hand, arrives in better shape. Under coach Gustavo Alfaro, the team is riding an eight-match unbeaten streak and has shown signs of resurgence. Recent friendly wins over heavyweights like Argentina and Brazil have added belief and momentum. Now, back on home soil, Paraguay sees a vulnerable Uruguay as an opportunity to climb.

With Valverde staying in Spain and Núñez watching from afar, Uruguay will need fresh leaders to emerge. It’s a pivotal stretch in their journey—and one that will test both Bielsa’s tactical ingenuity and his squad’s mental resilience.