Nizhny Novgorod (Russia): Uruguay striker Luis Suarez said that the absence of fellow attacker Edinson Cavani from the line-up was decisive in the team’s 0-2 loss to France here in their 2018 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal. Cavani had suffered an injury during the last game against Portugal in which he scored both the goals.
“Cavani has been essential for us because of the class of player he is. He scored two goals, and those who took his place did it in the best possible way and gave their all for the team. But that’s no excuse,” Suarez said Friday.
Suarez also hoped that veteran head coach Oscar Tabarez will continue with the national side and that his contract will be renewed after the World Cup.
“Everyone knows what ‘El Maestro’ means to the team and to Uruguay. For all he has done and for all the respect he has won, I believe he should stay with the team and continue the good work,” Suarez said of the 71-year-old.
“We always gave our all, we tried to do our best. You can say we could have done a little more, but we always did our best on the field. Some days you might try everything but will lose,” he added.
Meanwhile France forward Antoine Griezmann said he chose not to celebrate his goal against Uruguay ‘out of respect’. He had earlier spoken of his affinity with the South American country, its people and their customs. After his goal Griezmann stood with his arms by his sides before being mobbed by teammates.
“I didn’t celebrate that goal because when I started as a professional footballer I was supported by a Uruguayan, who showed me the good and the bad of football,” the Atletico Madrid striker told reporters. “Out of respect, I thought it was inappropriate to celebrate that goal.”