Luis Suarez breaks down in tears, retires from international football. The 17-year tenure of Luis Suarez concluded with a goalless draw against Paraguay in a South American World Cup qualifier. On Monday, Suarez, 37, declared his retirement from international playing.
He concludes his career as Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer, having scored 69 goals in 143 appearances since his début against Colombia in February 2007.
The ceremony featured a video message from Argentina legend and Inter Miami teammate Lionel Messi, as well as tributes from supporters.
Uruguay had 65% possession but was unable to penetrate a resolute Paraguay defense, which included one for Suarez. In the first half, the former Liverpool and Barcelona forward had the most promising opportunity for the host team; however, his attempt struck the post.
Sergio Rochet, the goalkeeper, saved the finest effort of Paraguay, which was made by Newcastle’s Miguel Almiron. Five players, including Darwin Nunez of Liverpool and Rodrigo Bentancur of Tottenham, were suspended by Uruguay due to their involvement in a confrontation with supporters during a Copa America loss to Colombia in July.
Uruguay remains in second place in the qualifying classification, four points behind Argentina, as a result of the draw. In other news, Brazil’s World Cup qualifying campaign, which was already in decline, was significantly improved by their 1-0 victory over Ecuador.
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Rodrygo, the real Madrid forward, scored the sole goal as the five-time world champions advanced from sixth to fourth in the table. The top six teams are guaranteed a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Estevao Willian, a teenage winger who will be joining Chelsea at the age of 18 next year, made his debut as a second-half substitution. In Lima, Colombia, which was in third place, required a late goal from Liverpool’s Luis Diaz to secure a 1-1 draw against Peru.
Peru took the lead on 68 minutes when Alexander Callens scored, but Diaz scored the equalizer with eight minutes remaining.