THE FOOTBALLING STARS OF URUGUAY SET TO TAKE ON THE RISING STARS OF CENTRAL ASIA AND THE CARRIBEAN

Uruguay — boasting two FIFA World Cup titles (1930, 1950) and a record 15 Copa América championships – are led by iconic coach Marcelo Bielsa and recently secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Peru.

Fans are expected to be treated to world-class football featuring global stars such as Federico Valverde (Real Madrid), Ronald Araujo (Barcelona) and Manuel Ugarte (Manchester United) — players who have lit up stadiums across Europe and South America.

The Uruguayans will play the Dominican Republic on 10 October, followed by the encounter against Uzbekistan in Malacca, three days later, a match that can be dubbed as the South American giants versus the rising stars from Central Asia.

This highly anticipated two nights of top-class football are set to captivate not only local supporters but also ignite passion across the ASEAN region and beyond.

With Uruguay’s global reputation and star-studded lineup of players who have graced the FIFA World Cup and top European leagues, the match is expected to transform into a regional football festival.

Fans from across Southeast Asia are already expressing excitement, making this more than just a local sporting event.

Li Yiming, Representative of Rainbow International Culture and Sports, said:

“Football has deep historical roots and a broad fan base in Malaysia. This unique environment and football tradition align perfectly with the excellence and competitive spirit represented by the Uruguay National Team.

“It is for this reason that we have chosen Malaysia as the host country for this prestigious event.

“These matches are not only a showcase of world-class football skills, but also a testament to the power of sport to transcend cultures, inspire hearts, and create lasting memories. We are committed to integrating top-tier international football with Malaysia’s unique cultural and tourism assets, delivering an unforgettable sporting experience for fans.”

Dato’ K.S. Lai, representative from local organiser, Cohesion Prima, said:

“Hosting these international matches right here in Malaysia is a proud moment for all of us. With Malaysia’s strategic location and strong football spirit, we’re confident this event will set a new benchmark in international friendlies hosted on our shores.

 “We are deeply grateful to the national teams of Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and the Dominican Republic for their trust and participation. Their presence here is more than just a sporting honour — it is a celebration of global friendship, cultural exchange, and shared love for the game.”

Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General, Tourism Malaysia, said:

“Tourism Malaysia is greatful to have this event being organise and wish to thank you to the organiser for choosing malaysia as the venue, which perfectly aligns with our mission to position Malaysia as a premier destination for world-class experiences. International sporting events like this not only provide great entertainment, but also play a vital role in boosting tourism, stimulating the economy, and highlighting Malaysia’s renowned hospitality and multicultural charm.” 

L Mariela Machado, Chargé d’Affaires of Uruguay Embassy to Malaysia, said:

“For Uruguay, football is not just a game — it’s part of our national identity. Bringing our team to Malaysia allows us to share our passion, inspire young players, and build lasting friendships across cultures.”

His Excellency Dr Karomidin Gadoev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uzbekistan, said:

“As an emerging footballing country from the Central Asia, Uzbekistan is a rising star in Asia and we look forward to the encounter to be held in Malacca. We are pleased to be taking part in Malaysia, which has great infrastructure to be organising events of this magnitude.”

While the spotlight falls on Uruguay, Uzbekistan with rising stars such as Abdukodir Khusanov (Manchester City) and Abbosbek Fayzullaev (CSKA Moscow) joining forces with Eldor Shomurodov and Jaloliddin Masharipov will be no pushovers in what promises to be a thrilling encounter, while the Dominican Republic, are ranked 139th in the latest FIFA rankings and led by Argentine coach Marcelo Neveleff.

As co-organisers, Rainbow Sports and Culture Sdn Bhd and Cohesion Prima thanked Tourism Malaysia and the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) for their unwavering support in making this event a reality.

Also present at the Press Conference was Jamoliddin Salikhov, Specialist, Department of National Teams of Uzbekistan.