Uruguay lose 3-1 to Japan in Forlan's debut as coach

Diego Forlan's Uruguay era began with a 3-1 friendly defeat to Japan in Rifu, with Rodrigo Bentancur captaining the side for just the second time in his career.

Sep 24, 2026 · Kickhell

Portrait of Diego Forlán, illustrating the start of his Uruguay coaching era in the 3-1 friendly loss to Japan. — Dltl2010 / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Uruguay suffered a 3-1 defeat to Japan in a friendly on Thursday, marking the first match of Diego Forlan's tenure as national team manager.

Forlan, the former Manchester United and Atletico Madrid striker, took charge following Marcelo Bielsa's departure in the summer. The match was played at the Miyagi Stadium in Rifu, Japan.

Rodrigo Bentancur captained Uruguay for the occasion — only the second time he has worn the armband for his country in his career. He played 79 minutes before being substituted, with the appearance becoming his 77th cap for Uruguay.

The result was a disappointing start for Forlan's new era, with the South American side unable to contain the hosts across the 90 minutes.

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