Uruguay step into this Group H clash as the clear favorites but their recent results paint a side that has grown cautious. Four draws in their last five outings include a 1-1 stalemate with Saudi Arabia and a goalless friendly against Algeria. Cape Verde arrive as debutants yet they already proved a point with that 0-0 draw against Spain in their opening match.
The Uruguayan lineup predicted by most previews features Muslera in goal behind Varela, Araujo, Gimenez and Olivera. Valverde anchors midfield alongside Ugarte or Bentancur while De la Cruz supplies the creativity. Up front the threat comes from Nunez or Rodriguez. Cape Verde are expected to line up with Vozinha between the posts, a backline that includes Moreira or Costa and Lopes, then Mendes, Monteiro and Semedo supporting Livramento in attack.
No injuries or suspensions affect either squad so both coaches have their full options available. Uruguay sit first or second in the group with one point from their opening fixture while Cape Verde sit third or fourth on the same tally. The match takes place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Valverde remains the midfield dynamo who can shift games with his range of passing and Nunez carries the attacking edge that has troubled better defenses. For Cape Verde, Mendes brings experience as their all-time leading scorer and Livramento offers a constant forward threat. Vozinha has shown he can keep clean sheets against strong opposition.
Uruguay have the two-time champions pedigree and greater depth but their low-scoring run suggests they may not run away with this. Cape Verde have shown resilience and won't be overawed after holding Spain. Expect Uruguay to control possession and eventually find a way through though Cape Verde could frustrate for long spells.
Recommended Bets
Uruguay win @1.38 — They hold the edge in quality and experience against debutants who have drawn their only World Cup game so far.
Under 2.5 goals @1.85 — Uruguay's last five matches produced just three goals total while Cape Verde kept a clean sheet against Spain.
Valverde anytime goalscorer @3.40 — The midfielder has started every recent game and pushes forward regularly from his central role.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
