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News
Danny Murphy reacts to Rodrigo Bentancur performance in Uruguay draw
Danny Murphy has told (broadcast on 24/11; 14:45) that Rodrigo Bentancur grew into Uruguay’s World Cup opener against South Korea, suggesting that the Tottenham star tried to make things happen.
The two-time winners opened their campaign with an underwhelming goalless draw. In fact, neither side was able to put a single attempt on target during the contest.
South Korea did not see the best of Bentancur’s teammate Son Heung-min. But Uruguay will be extremely frustrated with the result given the amount of quality they had on display.
Murphy praises Bentancur performance
Certainly, the likes of Darwin Nunez, Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani failed to make a major difference. And it is a surprise that none of the trio managed to open their account for the tournament.
Bentancur set up a late half-chance for Cavani with a brilliant cross, curled towards the far post. And following the ball into the box, Murphy suggested that the Tottenham midfielder was one player who could be content with his effort.
“Well, that was Bentancur taking responsibility,” . “He’s grown into the game actually. He’s been one of the few Uruguay players who’s trying to produce something, make a chance for them.”
Bentancur went into the tournament in brilliant form. He has arguably been Tottenham’s player of the season so far. And he rescued Antonio Conte’s men in their final Premier League game before the break, scoring twice late on to secure a 4-3 victory against Leeds.
His partnership with Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is absolutely crucial for Spurs. And it is a similar story for his country, with Federico Valverde one of the most talented central midfielders around right now.
Uruguay will be disappointed that they did not win on Thursday. It now appears imperative that they beat either Portugal or Ghana if they are going to make it through.
But with Bentancur and a few others in their ranks, there is every chance that they will bounce back.