Darwin Nunez was Uruguay’s star player at the time since his incredible assist and goal put an end to their 22-year winless streak against Brazil.
The No. 9 for Liverpool has had a strong start to the season for both club and country, and that continued in the last game he played for Uruguay before heading back to Merseyside.
In a World Cup qualifying encounter between Brazil and Marcelo Bielsa’s team, there was no Liverpool vs. Liverpool duel as Alisson sat on the bench for his nation for the sixth straight contest.
The Brazilian also witnessed an important performance from his club teammate Nunez, who was the difference in Uruguay’s 2-0 victory over the Selecao.
Despite having just 29 touches overall, the third-fewest of any starter, he contributed to both goals by first heading the ball before expertly setting up Nicola de la Cruz.
Nunez scored in the 42nd minute after opting not to sprint into the box. Maximiliano Araujo found him with a low cross, which necessitated a diving header.
The 24-year-old produced a lot of force, and Ederson of Man City did not dive for the ball until it had safely struck the goal.
But he wasn’t finished there.
Late in the second half, when he was pinned on the byline in the penalty box by three players, he persisted with the move and put the game beyond Brazil’s reach.
Nunez demonstrated his strength by riding the wave of the tackle to scoop the ball back towards the penalty spot and into De la Cruz’s path, who scored on the first attempt to make it 2-0.
A magnificent assist that perfectly captures Nunez’s style of play.
Nunez’s outstanding performance helped Uruguay end its 22-year wait to defeat Brazil in a World Cup qualifying match. The result also moved Bielsa’s team ahead of Brazil in the South American qualifying standings.
It’s safe to say Nunez, who played 180 minutes for his country this month, will return to Liverpool ahead of the derby full of confidence!