Former Uruguay striker Luis Suarez has criticized the current state of the national team and the managerial choices of head coach Marcelo Bielsa following a 2-2 draw against Cape Verde on June 22, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Suarez, who now plays for Inter Miami, watched from the stands and later spoke at a Conmebol event, reflecting on the team's failure to secure a victory after two group stage matches.
He expressed mixed feelings, noting the emotional impact on the players. "Seeing my teammates devastated leaves me with a bittersweet feeling," Suarez said.
The result leaves Uruguay with two points from two matches, requiring a win against European champions Spain on Friday to advance to the knockout rounds.
"It's a critical situation, but we Uruguayans are used to it; we've shown it before.
In these moments, we bring out our courage, self-criticism, group strength, and Uruguayan character," Suarez added.
Bielsa's Decisions Under Fire
Suarez addressed Bielsa's approach, noting that the coach chose not to select the 39-year-old top scorer for the tournament as part of a squad rejuvenation strategy.
"Each coach has their way of handling these situations.
Showing that strength will be nice as a Uruguayan; we don't want to get to this point, but it's our turn.
I hope the coach takes the right path," Suarez said.
He added, "Decisions are made, and you have to assume the consequences. He has enough experience to know what decisions he's making.
With hindsight, it's easy to criticize because that's what sells."
Watching as a spectator was challenging for the legendary goalscorer, who still feels the urge to contribute.
"I still have that player's adrenaline, that flame to help the national team. But I enjoy my role now," he stated.
Suarez also spoke about his children's love for the national team. "Seeing them suffer after the match is complicated as a father, but that's my role now."
He interacted with current squad members after the final whistle, offering encouragement. "I told some of them to stay strong.
They can get through this because we are Uruguayans and know how to face it."
During the match, Maxi Araujo dedicated his goal to Suarez, a gesture that moved him deeply. "It really moved me.
I didn't expect it. He has always shown me that idolatry.
We have a great relationship. It was a big gesture that shows what kind of person he is."
Uruguay faces a historical barrier: the team has not won a World Cup match without Suarez on the pitch since 1990.
"Those are anecdotes. They'll stay there.
I hope it's broken on Friday; that's what I wish. I want it to be broken once and for all," Suarez concluded.
He also commented on the unpredictable nature of the 2026 World Cup, noting that traditional powerhouses face unexpected resistance.
"This is a very complicated World Cup because there are great teams. Talking about a surprise is difficult because there have been many unexpected results.
Matches have to be played; everyone has ambition, even the four big favorites can be eliminated earlier than expected."
Suarez voiced his regional alignment, hoping South American teams maintain a strong reputation.
"As a South American, I want the region's teams to do well, to advance and leave a good image.
In Europe, they only talk about Europe, saying they are the strongest and the favorites, that we are a step below."
Finally, he discussed his former Barcelona teammate Neymar, whose inclusion in the Brazilian squad generated enthusiasm. "When he was called up, I told him...
seeing the happiness his call-up generated in all of Brazil showed the affection they have for him and the unity of the people for their national team.
I want to see him play, helping Brazil; that's what he wants most."
