KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 10 (Bernama) -- Two-time World Cup winners Uruguay were forced to work hard before edging the Dominican Republic 1-0 in an international friendly at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here tonight.
Midfielder Ignacio Laquintana emerged as the hero for La Celeste after scoring the only goal of the match in the second half to salvage pride for the world number 15 side.
Playing without several of their star players due to injury and health issues, Uruguay enjoyed greater ball possession from the start but lacked sharpness in front of goal as they struggled to break down an opponent content to sit deep in their own half.
The Dominican Republic who launched only occasional attacks, had the best chance to take the lead through a counterattack in the 29th minute but striker Dorny Romero’s low shot went straight to goalkeeper Christopher Javier.
The match intensified after the break as both sides increased their attacking efforts in search of the opening goal, prompting Uruguay head coach Marcelo Bielsa to make five substitutions at on go.
The changes paid off for Uruguay when Laquintana broke the deadlock in the 60th minute with a powerful strike that beat Xavier.
After facing the Dominican Republic, Uruguay will wrap up their tour in Malaysia against Uzbekistan at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Melaka on Oct 13.
-- BERNAMA
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