Star Players
Uruguay has 5,829 registered payers separated between 28 clubs. Compared to other nations this is terribly small, however the Uruguay rugby union is doing a good job at developing the sport in the country. Uruguay has an U20 team who have played in all five Junior World Trophy events coming 4th in the 2014 edition. The majority of the Uruguay squad comes play for local clubs, although five play for lower level overseas clubs. This lack of overseas experience seriously stunts the players ability to achieve their potential, however the team remain very committed, and have the important aspects of comradery and teamsmanship.
How They've Fared
Uruguay had a long journey to enter RWC 2015, winning the repechage spot in Pool A. To begin with Uruguay had to compete for the Americas 2 spot with the USA, Uruguay drew the first test in Montevideo 27-27 showing superb determination to take the early lead, but leaking too many points in the second half. The second test in Atlanta went poorly for Uruguay, they dominated the scrum but leaked points going down 32-13 to a spirited eagles side. This meant Uruguay had to go through repachage a process los teros were used to after they lost 32-12 against Romania for the spot in the 2011 world cup. Competing against Asia 2, Africa 2, and Europe 3. Uruguay dismissed a jetlagged Hong Kong team 28-3 to move on to the next round. Being higher ranked than Russia meant the first leg would take place in Siberia, Uruguay put up a good fight only leaking one try, however their attack was not good enough and los teros went down 22-21. In the second leg, played in Montevideo, Uruguay were in front of an enthusiastic home crowd whom had just witnessed the tour of the Web Ellis cup, using this support los teros went up 36-27 to qualify for their first world cup in 12 years. Previously Uruguay had been in the 1999 world cup and the 2003 world cup, winning one game on both occasions. After their first qualification in 1999 rugby's popularity skyrocketed becoming the third most popular sport after soccer and basketball. Unfortunately Uruguay has the disadvantage of lining up against three top tier teams, and a second tier team at the RWC 2015. With their dogged determination Uruguay should look to upset Fiji, however there are no easy beats in pool A.
20/09 Vs. Wales
Millenium Stadium
27/09 Vs. Australia
Villa Park
06/10 Vs. Fiji
Stadium MK
10/10 Vs. England
Manchester City Stadium
US Embassy Montevideo