Luis Suarez hit back at former Manchester United star Andreas Pereira for his disrespectful comments about Uruguay.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Marcelo Bielsa’s side clinched a hard-fought win over Brazil on Sunday in the Copa America 2024 quarter-final as they edged out the 2019 champions in the penalty shootout. Eder Militao and Douglas Luiz failed to convert their spot-kicks while Manuel Ugarte netted the decisive penalty to send Uruguay to the last-four stage.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE

After progressing to the next round of Copa America, Uruguay veteran Luis Suarez hit back at Brazil and ex-United midfielder Andreas Pereira. Pereira had claimed ahead of the clash that the Selecao are firm favourites to win the tie as they are a much superior team compared to their opponents.

WHAT LUIS SUAREZ SAID

Speaking to reporters after the game, the Inter Miami striker said, “We have the best midfielders in the world, top-level players. To talk about Uruguay, you have to have a little more respect, and know the history of Uruguay.

“Before I say which players want to be on the Brazilian national team, I have to say that the person who made that comment was [Giorgian] De Arrascaeta’s reserve [at Flamengo], who is the best player in Brazilian football. So imagine what it’s like for us to hear that.”

After his team’s defeat, Pereira clarified his earlier comments by saying, “I simply said that I preferred it and I think our players are better, so if they used that to their advantage, they can do whatever they want. But at no time did I show any disrespect towards Uruguay.”

WHAT NEXT IN COPA AMERICA?

In the first semi-final on Wednesday, reigning champions Argentina are set to face Jesse Marsch’s spirited Canada side while a day later, Uruguay take on an in-form Colombia.