Uruguay's National Team Reveals Squad for Costa Rica Friendly Under Diego Pérez

Uruguay's national football team has announced a 23-player squad for a friendly match against Costa Rica, set to take place on Friday at the National Stadium in San José. The squad, composed entirely of domestic players, will be led by Diego Pérez, a prominent figure in Uruguayan football.

Among the notable inclusions is Walter Domínguez, a 24-year-old forward from the Juventud de Soriano club. Domínguez, the top scorer of the Organization of Interior Football (OFI), has been called up to the national team despite having never played professionally. His selection marks the first time in over four decades that an amateur footballer from the interior has reached the Celeste without professional experience.

Other key players in the squad include goalkeeper Randall Rodríguez from Peñarol, midfielder Rodrigo Chagas from Nacional, and forward Matías Fonseca from Wanderers. These players are part of the 'Local Environment Team,' a project aimed at giving exposure to footballers competing in domestic tournaments and providing clubs with an international showcase.

Coach Diego Pérez, who will lead the team for this friendly match, expressed the importance of this initiative. 'There were many complications when putting together the list. The teams that play the Cup Libertadores and Sudamericana, added to other institutions, they didn't give us the players. It is a project that is just starting. It is very important because it gives the players in the middle the chance to show themselves, grow, and that enriches a lot,' Pérez said.

Meanwhile, Marcelo Bielsa, the Argentine coach of the main national team, is focused on preparing for the Copa América in the United States, scheduled for June and July. Bielsa's involvement with the domestic squad has been minimal, as he concentrates on the upcoming international tournament.

Walter Domínguez expressed his thrill about the call-up, stating, 'The truth is that I am very happy. I didn’t expect it, it came as a surprise.' His inclusion has drawn attention, given his status as an amateur player, and highlights the opportunities provided by the 'Local Environment Team.'

This initiative is not only a chance for players to showcase their talents but also a strategic move to strengthen the domestic football scene in Uruguay. The friendly match against Costa Rica will serve as a platform for these players to gain international experience and demonstrate their skills on a larger stage.

As Uruguay prepares for the Copa América under Bielsa's leadership, the domestic squad's efforts in friendly matches like this one are vital for the development and recognition of local talent. The match against Costa Rica will be closely watched, offering a glimpse into the future of Uruguayan football.

Key Takeaways

• Uruguay's national team announces 23-player squad for friendly match against Costa Rica.
• Walter Domínguez, an amateur player, makes history as first non-pro from interior to join Celeste.
• 'Local Environment Team' project aims to showcase domestic players and provide international exposure.
• Coach Diego Pérez leads the team, while Marcelo Bielsa focuses on Copa América preparations.
• Friendly match serves as platform for domestic players to gain experience and demonstrate skills.