Uruguay beat Saudi Arabia 1-0 yesterday, to safely book their passage into the knockout phase.
Uruguay also dealt a double blow to Egypt and Saudi Arabia, who have been dumped out.
The South Americans join Russia in the round of 16, and though it has been a struggle for the neutral to watch them, their strategy has been superb.
Manager Oscar Tabarez has utilised his Atletico Madrid-infused defensive partnership, limiting admittedly poor opposition to few opportunities, and strikers Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez have been reliable at the other end of the field.
PSG forward Cavani notched up the pressure in Uruguay’s opener against Egypt, smashing the post with a free kick, and it finally told when centre half Jose Gimenez powered a header into the back of the net.
Against Saudi Arabia Tabarez deployed similar tactics, and on that occasion Luis Suarez was the man to grab the winner – a scrappy back post strike enough to see past the western Asians.
Gritty but effective
Some might criticise the way Uruguay play – it isn’t the most exhilarating – however they have played to their strengths respectably and channelled everything through their focal points on the pitch.
Diego Godin and Gimenez have been as impressive for Uruguay as at club level, restricting both opponents and ensuring chances came at a premium.
Although Suarez might not have warmed up against Egypt, he exorcised the demons the second time out, and his goal was enough to book Uruguay’s route beyond the group stage.
Midfielders Carlos Sanchez and Rodrigo Bentancur have also been impressive.
Can they carry it on?
It has been no more arduous than plain sailing thus far, however their pragmatic method leaves questions over whether they can produce it against better sides.
Spain and Portugal look set to advance from Group B, meaning Uruguay will face Iberian opponents in the round of 16.
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There is plenty to suggest either of those nations can go all the way. Uruguay will be posed with a first genuine challenge in the knockouts.
Despite their laudable strategy so far in the World Cup, Egypt and Saudi Arabia have hardly been strong opposition and are deservedly going home after the group stages.
Portugal and Spain, however, should test the Uruguayans to the limit.
Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani will need to be at the top of their game to get the necessary goals, while the Atletico Madrid defensive duo might face more action than they have done throughout the whole tournament.
Whether Uruguay can adjust to the fresh difficulties and continue their journey in the World Cup is up for question. But there is no debate about the efficient way in which they have gone about their business so far.
Next: Has James Rodriguez lived up to his potential?
How far do you think Uruguay will go in the World Cup?