Darwin Nunez’s form for Uruguay has caught the attention of Lionel Messi.
The Liverpool striker has been in prolific form for the Reds so far this season, with 13 goal contributions in 17 games. It has been a similar story for the 24-year-old at international level, too, as he has been a driving force behind Uruguay making a strong start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Since taking over as Uruguay boss in May, former Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa appears to have found a way to unlock Nunez’s best form. In five World Cup qualifiers, Nunez has scored and assisted three goals apiece, including in victories over Brazil and Argentina.
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It was getting on the scoresheet, late on, in a 2-0 victory over World Cup holders Argentina that prompted praise from Messi. Speaking after the final whistle, the Inter Miami forward said: "Uruguay are good at rebounding and playing in space on counter attack. They have excellent players for that like Darwin [Nunez]."
Nunez helped Uruguay end Argentina’s run of 14 consecutive victories, dating back to last year’s World Cup. The Liverpool forward celebrated his goal with former Reds hero Luis Suarez, who was an unused substitute in the game, and was the latest chapter in Nunez establishing himself as his country’s star striker.
The result sees Uruguay sit 2nd in the COMNEBOL table, two points behind Argentina, albeit with 13 qualifiers remaining The South American federation are guaranteed six slots for the next World Cup and Uruguay could take top spot before the end of the international break, should results go their way.
Nunez and his teammates are preparing for a home clash with Bolivia tonight (11.30pm kick-off), while current league leaders Argentina could potentially drop points to Brazil in the early hours of Wednesday morning (12.30am kick-off).
