Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte scored in the 101st minute to hand Uruguay a dramatic win against Colombia in South American World Cup qualifying.
The 23-year-old scored from close range in the 11th minute of stoppage time to end Uruguay’s four-match winless streak.
It was the former Sporting midfielder’s first goal for his country and helps Uruguay into second in the 2026 World Cup qualifying table, three points behind holders Argentina.
“Triumphs like today’s are healing in the sense that they bring all the parties that are around such a strong feeling, as in Uruguay it is the national team,” Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa said.
“It was essential to win again. Regardless of the way it happened, which was very exciting, it was a necessary victory. We are heading in the right direction.”
Colombia opened the scoring with a stunning free-kick from midfielder Juan Quintero.
Two goals in three minutes after the break handed Uruguay the lead, with Rodrigo Aguirre scoring after Davinson Sanchez’s own goal.
Uruguay’s winless run looked to be continued when Colombia levelled six minutes into stoppage time through substitute Andres Gomez.
The goal survived a lengthy VAR review, which meant that Uruguay did not resume the game from kick-off until the 100th minute.
But there was still time on the board for Ugarte to find a winner, as he struck home from the edge of the box for his first goal in 27 caps.
Morocco
