Diego Lugano: “Uruguay is going to play one of the most important games in modern times.
Uruguay has arrived at the semi-final stage of the World Cup for the first time since 1970. They are the last hope of South America after the early exits of favorites, Argentina and Brazil. Uruguay is a small but very decorated footballing nation. They hosted and won the first World Cup in 1930. Uruguay achieved world football immortality in 1950 by beating Brazil in front of 200,000 fans at Maracana Stadium in Rio.
Financial Incentives for the Final Four Teams
According to the BBC, reaching the semi-finals will put $18 million USD into the coffers of the Uruguayan FA. The winner of the World Cup will receive $30 million USD from FIFA. The runner-up will receive $24 million USD and the third place winner, $20 million USD. Teams that advanced to the round of 16 will receive $9 million USD. All 32 national teams received $1 million USD for expenses prior to the competition.
In comments made to the Montevideo newspaper, El Pais, protagonists of the penalty kick shoot-out win over Ghana, Sebastian Abreu and Fernando Muslera, weighed in with their thoughts on the quarterfinal and the upcoming tie with the Netherlands. Diego Lugano, who was injured and subbed out in the first half against Ghana, discussed his situation and the historic opportunity for his side.