[Qatar World Cup] Uruguay Goalkeeper Rochet: "Son Heung-min is a Top-Level Player, We Will Prepare Well"

Uruguay national team goalkeeper Sergio Rochet is training goalkeeping at Al Ersal Training Ground in Doha, Qatar on the 19th (local time) during the 2022 Qatar World Cup. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] Uruguay's goalkeeper Sergio Rochet (Nacional), the first opponent of the South Korean national football team, expressed caution, saying he is thoroughly preparing for Son Heung-min (Tottenham).

On the 20th (Korean time), the Uruguayan media El Pais reported that after completing the second day of training at Al Ersal Training Ground in Doha, Qatar, Rochet held a press conference and said, "Son Heung-min is a very high-level player," and "I have watched and studied him for a long time, and I am also preparing for all players."

Rochet is a player who emerged as the starting goalkeeper after veteran Uruguayan goalkeeper Fernando Muslera (Galatasaray) was sidelined due to a knee injury. Having debuted in A matches this year, he has started in 8 matches this year, including the two A matches in September, conceding 2 goals.

At the press conference, when asked about the upcoming match against Son Heung-min, who is recovering from recent orbital fracture surgery, Rochet said, "I have already studied Korea," and "All team members are focusing and working hard every day."

Regarding the official ball of this tournament, 'Al Rihla,' Rochet explained, "The official ball is improved every year for kickers, so it is becoming increasingly difficult for goalkeepers," but added, "The focus is on increasing speed, and we are continuously adapting."

Korea will face Uruguay in the first match of Group H in the Qatar World Cup group stage at 10 PM (Korean time) on the 24th at Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.