Press Conference Ahead of Uruguay Match, Vowing to Avenge Defeat from 4 Years Ago
Portugal, the last opponent of the South Korean national football team in Group H of the 2022 FIFA Qatar World Cup group stage, expressed their determination to secure a spot in the round of 16 by defeating Uruguay. Coach Fernando Santos said at a press conference held on the 27th at the main media center in Al Rayyan, Qatar, "Uruguay won in 2018, but this time we hope to win," adding, "We will fight to earn 3 points." Portugal lost 1-2 to Uruguay in the round of 16 at the 2018 Russia World Cup.
The rematch after four years will take place at Lusail Stadium at 4 a.m. (Korean time) on the 29th. Portugal leads Group H after winning their first match against Ghana 3-2. Uruguay is tied for second place with South Korea after a 0-0 draw.
The key to revenge lies in how they fill the gaps left by injured players. Portugal’s starting defender Danilo Pereira (Paris Saint-Germain) was seriously injured during training the day before. Tests revealed that three ribs on his right side were broken, ruling him out of the remaining two group stage matches. Coach Santos said, "We practiced dead-ball defense, but he screamed and collapsed during a challenge and had difficulty breathing," adding, "We hope he recovers quickly and returns soon." Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), who attended the press conference, said, "Other players will fill the gap well," and added, "We definitely want to win for Pereira."
The vacancy is expected to be filled by veteran Pepe (Porto), who was on the bench against Ghana. Coach Santos said, "He is always a player who is ready." Regarding midfielder Ot?vio (Porto) and full-back Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain), who are focusing on recovery due to muscle pain, he said, "They received treatment this morning as well. We will monitor their condition during training to see if they improve."
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