Piquerez returns to stadium where he faced Messi for Palmeiras, explained | OneFootball

Left-back Joaquín Piquerez will play again at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, the setting of a memorable moment in the recent history of Palmeiras. This Sunday (21), the Uruguay international will face Cape Verde in the second round of the World Cup group stage at 8 p.m. (Brasília time).

The stadium was also the venue, in 2025, for Verdão’s first-ever meeting with Lionel Messi. On that occasion, Palmeiras drew 2-2 with Inter Miami in the FIFA Club World Cup. The green-and-white side’s goals were scored by Paulinho and Maurício, in a match that was also marked by the use of a special shirt created exclusively for the competition, worn only in that game in the club’s entire history.

Uruguay need a win

The Uruguay national team heads into the match under pressure. After drawing with Saudi Arabia in the opener, the team must beat Cape Verde to avoid going into the final round under pressure, when they will face Spain.

The Cape Verdeans caused a surprise in the first round by earning a heroic draw against the Spaniards. The standout performer was goalkeeper Vozinha, who delivered a decisive display and helped his national team secure a historic result.

Piquerez still seeking his debut

Piquerez has yet to take the field in this edition of the World Cup. Having recovered from an injury suffered precisely in a friendly for the Uruguay national team against England, months before the tournament, the full-back is looking to earn his place and compete with Matías Viña, who did not perform well in the opener.

Another Palmeiras representative in the Uruguay squad is Emiliano Martínez. The midfielder was called up for the World Cup after establishing himself as a starter and an important piece in Palmeiras’ setup, and he is also waiting for the chance to make his tournament debut.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.