Uruguay will need to keep a tight shape and press early, lest Cape Verde exploit their lack of recent rhythm. The Brazilians’ lone goal last week came from Maxi Araújo, who has already shown he can finish in tight spaces; if he can spot the back of the net again, Uruguay will have a cushion to work with. Cape Verde’s record of DWWLL and zero goals in their last five shows they will look for transition threat from the full‑backs and rely on a compact midfield to absorb pressure. At Hard Rock Stadium, the humidity and the two mandatory hydration breaks will test both teams’ fitness. Uruguay’s back four have been solid defensively, conceding just one in their first match, but they’ll need to control possession in midfield to deny Cape Verde the chance to launch counter‑attacks. A single mistake or a set‑piece lapse could swing the game, so both sides will play with nerves on the brink of the group stage.