Bielsa Challenges Mexico’s Strategy as Nunez’s Hat-Trick Dominates in Uruguay’s Stunning Victory
Uruguay upped their game ahead of the Copa America, dazzling spectators by decimating Mexico at Empower Field at Mile High on Wednesday.
In a spirited match in Denver, Marcelo Bielsa criticized Mexico’s tactical plan as Darwin Nunez netted three goals leading Uruguay to a 4-0 rout of El Tri.
The Uruguayan squad, under Bielsa, notched their seventh victory in 12 outings (with three ties and two defeats) by bulldozing a significantly altered Mexican team.
With a crucial match against Brazil looming, Mexico’s coach Jaime Lozano opted to rest key players like Santiago Gimenez and Alexis Vega. This decision backfired as his squad was quickly dismantled.
By halftime, Uruguay was leading 3-0 with Nunez scoring twice and Facundo Pellistri converting a pass from Brian Rodriguez. Nunez completed his hat-trick shortly after the break, firing into an empty goal.
Post-match, Bielsa, the former Leeds United manager, hinted that Mexico underestimated the friendly, stating, “Preparing teams should engage fully, especially when a showdown with Brazil is up next.”
Nevertheless, Bielsa anticipates a tougher challenge from Mexico in the Copa America. They share Group B with Ecuador, Venezuela, and Jamaica.
“The score was misleading. Mexico had their moments in the first half and could have altered the game,” he noted.
“Remember, today saw many key players benched. With the full squad, Mexico will prove formidable,” he added.
Uruguay will kick off their Copa America journey on June 23 against Panama, face Bolivia after four days, and wrap up Group C against host nation, the United States.
