FIFA RANKING : 18
Only few nations have the footballing history of Uruguay. Even with a sparse population of just over 3 million, the country boasts of an impressive collection of World, Continental and Olympic titles that compares favourably with the world's best. With their glorious past a fading memory now, this side are determined to prove their worth in the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

THE MANAGER
The 62 year old Oscar Washington Tabarez is preparing for his 2nd appearance with Uruguay at the FIFA World Cup 2010. He was the man in the hot seat when Uruguay were knocked out in the round of 16 at Italy 1990. Reliable, Hard-working and a man of few words, El Maestro ( that's his nickname..! ) is set to return to the big stage with a youthful and resilient side.


THE SQUAD
Goalkeepers :
Fernando Muslera, Juan Castillo, Martin Silva.

Defenders :
Diego Lugano, Diego Godin, Jorge Fucile, Andres Scotti, Maxi Pereira, Mauricio Victorino, Martin Caceras.

Midfielders :
Walter Gargano, Sebastien Eguren, Alvaro Pereira, Nicolas Lodeiro, Diego Perez, Ignacio Gonzalez, Egidio Arevalo Rios, Alvaro Fernandez.

Forwards :
Edison Cavani, Diego Forlan, Luis Suarez, Sebastian Abreu.


MAN TO WATCH
Diego Forlan
The Atletico Madrid striker has been in sensational touch throughout the domestic season in Spain as well as during the qualification campaign for Uruguay. He has contributed largely to the European success of Atletico Madrid this season and he has a knack of scoring goals in important situations. With experience and killer finishing skills in his pocket, he is one of the most prolific strikers in World football today. Uruguay will certainly be hoping to cash in on his recent explosive form to lead their line up front.
FP VERDICT
Uruguay have been grouped along with France, Mexico and hosts South Africa. Though on paper you would expect France to qualify, there is a lot of criticism surrounding the French side at the moment and either of Mexico or Uruguay or both could qualify for the knockout rounds. It's a very open group fellas and the team that performs well on the match day will go through.