Real Salt Lake midfielder Juan Manuel Sanbarra made his first-ever World Cup start on Sunday as Uruguay settled for a 2-2 draw against Cape Verde in Miami. The result marks the second consecutive group match where Uruguay was unable to secure three points, following a previous 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia.
Match highlights and scoring summary
During the match, Cape Verde took an early lead when Kevin Pina scored on a long-range free-kick that passed through the Uruguay defensive wall. Uruguay responded before halftime with two goals. The first came in the 44th minute when Araujo scored on a rebound after Sidney Lopes Cabral headed the ball against his own post. The turnaround was completed during first-half stoppage time when Canobbio converted a volley from an Araujo header, a play initiated by service from Sanabria on the left side.
Uruguay's tournament progression outlook
Uruguay regained control in the second half until a mistake by goalkeeper Muslera allowed Cape Verde substitute Varela to score into an empty net in the 61st minute. The match ended in a draw, leaving Uruguay's progression to the Round of 32 dependent on their upcoming performance against Spain in Guadalajara.
Sanabria's performance and statistics
Sanabria, a potential MLS Newcomer of the Year candidate and RSL's 2026 assist leader with six assists, is one of several players to have started for his national team in five of the last six FIFA World Cups. Uruguay now faces tournament favorite Spain on Friday. Under the expanded 48-team format, Uruguay maintains a 96.1% chance of progressing if they earn a draw against Spain.
Real Salt Lake local updates
Back in Utah, Real Salt Lake players and staff have returned to the Zions Bank Training Center in Herriman. The club's upcoming schedule includes preseason matches and a home match against Burnley FC at America First Field in Sandy on July 15.
