KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 12 (Bernama) — Two-time World Cup champions Uruguay will play two international friendlies against the Dominican Republic and Uzbekistan in Malaysia next month.
Uruguay, featuring stars like Federico Valverde (Real Madrid), Ronald Araujo (Barcelona) and Manuel Ugarte (Manchester United), are scheduled to face the Dominican Republic at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here on Oct 10.
Marcelo Bielsa’s squad, who have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, will then face Uzbekistan at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Melaka on Oct 13.
Li Yiming, chairman of event promoter Rainbow Hainan of China, said Malaysia was chosen due to its football culture and large fan base, as well as the world-class facilities and infrastructure available for hosting sporting events.
“It is for these reasons that we have chosen Malaysia as the host country for this prestigious event. These matches are not only a showcase of world-class footballing skills but also a testament to the power of sport to transcend cultures, inspire hearts and create lasting memories.
“We are committed to integrating top-tier international football with Malaysia’s unique cultural and tourism assets, delivering an unforgettable sporting experience for fans,” he told the 2025 Stars Of Uruguay, Global Friendly In Malaysia press conference here today.
Meanwhile, the Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Uruguay in Malaysia, L. Mariela Machado, expressed her excitement to see the La Celeste (The Sky Blue) squad in action and entertain the fans here.
She believes that Uruguay’s presence will have a positive impact on Malaysian football, while not ruling out the possibility of future matches between Malaysia and Uruguay.
“So, I think it’s just the first opportunity for us to build a bridge between our countries, and the next step must be with the Malaysian football team,” she said.
In the meantime, Uzbekistan national team specialist Jamoliddin Salikhov said the match against Uruguay would provide valuable experience and added value for the Uzbekistan squad, who will be making their World Cup debut next year.
“When we heard we would be playing Uruguay in Malaysia, we were very happy. Yes, it is a little far away, but everything (facilities) here is of a high level. Uruguay are one of the best teams in the world, so for us, this will be a very good experience before the World Cup,” he said.
Uruguay are currently ranked 16th in the world, while Uzbekistan are 55th and the Dominican Republic 142nd.
Online ticket sales for the two friendlies are expected to start on Sept 18.
For the record, the Harimau Malaya will face Laos in Group F of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers on Oct 9 in Vientiane and on Oct 14 here.
— BERNAMA
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