Capitalizing on their home advantage, Uruguay quickly launched an offensive. In the 12th minute, Valverde’s threatening free kick was expertly saved by goalkeeper Galindez, keeping Ecuador from going behind.

Just a few minutes later, former Manchester United star Pellistri missed the opportunity in a one-on-one encounter with Ecuador’s keeper.

In the second half, Uruguay continued to dominate the match, but Nunez and his teammates struggled to maintain composure in front of goal.

Toward the end of the game, Ugarte, a midfielder currently playing for Manchester United, suffered an injury and asked to be substituted.

As a result, Uruguay has now gone four matches without a win in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Under the guidance of coach Marcelo Bielsa, the team remains in third place with 16 points, but Brazil has caught up to them in points and trails only on goal difference (+7 compared to +6).