Uruguay and Japan Draw 1-1 in Diego Forlán’s Coaching Debut in Miyagi
Uruguay's national football team kicked off their post-World Cup 2026 Asian tour with a 1-1 draw against Japan in Miyagi. The match marked Diego Forlán's debut as head coach of the Celeste, featuring a 4-4-2 lineup and setting the stage for upcoming fixtures against South Korea and India.
On September 24, 2026, Uruguay and Japan played to a 1-1 draw at the Q&A Stadium in Miyagi, Japan, in the opening match of Uruguay’s Asian tour following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This match saw Diego Forlán take charge of the national team as head coach for the first time. Kickoff took place at 7:05 local time, creating anticipation among fans for this new chapter under Forlán’s leadership. [1]
Diego Forlán chose a 4-4-2 formation for the game. In goal, Santiago Mele started, with defenders Nahitan Nández, Ronald Araújo, Mathías Olivera, and Juan Manuel Sanabria forming the back line. The midfield included Brian Rodríguez, Lucas Torreira, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Maximiliano Araújo, while the frontline consisted of Federico Viñas and Darwin Núñez. This selection reflected a balance between defensive solidity and attacking options in the squad. [1]
Japan, coached by Hajime Moriyasu, fielded Tomoki Hayakawa as goalkeeper. Their defense featured Kou Itakura, Hiroki Ito, and Ayumu Seko. Midfield roles were filled by Ritsu Doan, Kaishu Sano, Kodai Sano, and Keito Nakamura, while their attack was led by Kuryu Matsuki, Daizen Maeda, and Yuito Suzuki. The Japanese lineup demonstrated a mix of experience and youth aiming to challenge Uruguay on home soil. [2]
The live broadcast was widely accessible, with coverage available on DirecTV channel 310, Flow channels 719 and 119, Nuevo Siglo channels 471 and 475, TCC channel 429, Montecable events channel 1, and many local cable providers. Additionally, viewers could watch via AUF TV for a fee of 390 Uruguayan pesos, reflecting strong interest in Uruguay's international fixtures. [1]
Looking ahead, Uruguay’s Asian tour continues with a friendly against South Korea scheduled for September 28 at 8:00 local time at the Seoul World Cup Stadium. The tour will conclude with a match against India on October 6 at 10:30 local time at the VYBK Stadium in Kolkata. These encounters provide Forlán an opportunity to shape his squad in diverse competitive environments as preparations progress post-World Cup. [1]