Uruguay National Football Team Vs Colombia National Football Team Lineups

This article will dive into the lineups of both Uruguay national football team and Colombia national football team, trying to give you some insights about the players and formations that maybe will be used in their upcoming match. I’m not really sure why this matters so much, but hey, fans love to know who gonna start, right? So, let’s get into it.

Uruguay Starting Lineup Overview
So, Uruguay’s probable starting eleven is something like a mix of experience and youth, with some players who have been around for ages and some fresh faces trying to make a mark. Usually, they like to play with a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 formation, but sometimes they switch it up depending on the opponent. Their defense is pretty solid, but sometimes they struggle to keep possession in midfield, which could be a problem against Colombia’s quick passing.

Colombia Starting Lineup Overview
Colombia’s lineup expected to be dynamic and fast-paced, with attacking midfielders who loves to create chances. They usually prefer a 4-2-3-1 formation, which gives them good balance between defense and attack. But, not really sure why this matters, since lineups can change last minute. Their strength lies in their forwards, who are quick and skillful, but their defense sometimes can be shaky under pressure.

• Key Players to Watch in Uruguay: Players like Luis Suárez and Federico Valverde are crucial. They bring experience and energy, but Suárez sometimes looks a bit tired, maybe it’s just me.
• Key Players to Watch in Colombia: James Rodríguez and Luis Díaz are the stars here. Their recent form is good, and they could really change the game if they get space.

Comparing Tactical Formations
Uruguay’s tactical approach often focuses on solid defense and quick counter-attacks, while Colombia prefers to keep the ball and build attacks patiently. The difference in style could make this match very interesting, or maybe just boring if both teams play too cautiously.

Goalkeeper Battle: Who’s Likely to Shine?
Both teams have experienced goalkeepers, but Uruguay’s keeper has been more consistent recently. Colombia’s goalie sometimes makes risky decisions, which could cost them.

Defensive Lineups and Their Impact
Uruguay’s defenders are known for their toughness, but they sometimes get caught out by fast wingers. Colombia’s backline is a bit younger and less experienced, which might be a weakness.

Midfield Dynamics: Control and Creativity
Midfield will be key, with Uruguay trying to disrupt Colombia’s rhythm, while Colombia aims to control the tempo and create chances. This battle in the middle might decide the game.

Forward Lineups and Scoring Potential
Both teams have forwards with good scoring records, but Uruguay’s attack depends heavily on Suárez, who might not be at his best. Colombia’s forwards are more varied, which could give them an edge.

Injuries and Suspensions Affecting Lineups
There are some injury concerns on both sides, but nothing major reported yet. Suspensions could play a role if any last minute cards come up in previous matches.

Summary Table of Key Match Factors:--------------------------------------------------------| Factor               | Uruguay                  | Colombia                   |--------------------------------------------------------| Formation            | 4-4-2 / 4-3-3            | 4-2-3-1                    || Star Players         | Luis Suárez, Valverde    | James Rodríguez, Luis Díaz || Goalkeeper           | More Consistent          | Risky Decisions            || Defense              | Tough but sometimes slow | Young, less experienced    || Midfield             | Disruptive               | Creative, controlling      || Attack               | Reliant on Suárez        | Varied and dynamic         || Injuries/Suspensions | Minor                    | Minor                      |--------------------------------------------------------

So, that’s pretty much the lowdown on the . Not perfect info, but hopefully it gives you some idea what to expect. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like this game gonna be tight and exciting. Stay tuned!

Uruguay Starting Lineup Overview

Here we gonna take a closer look at the probable starting eleven for Uruguay national football team, which is kinda important if you wanna understand how the team might play in their next match. Now, I’m not really sure why this matters so much to everyone, but it’s worth to know who’s on the field, right? So, let’s dive in and see who could be starting and what roles they usually play.

First off, Uruguay usually line up in a 4-4-2 or sometimes a 4-3-3 formation, which helps them balance defense and attack pretty well. The goalkeeper spot is almost always held by Fernando Muslera, who has been a reliable figure for years. He’s known for his quick reflexes and commanding presence, even though sometimes he messes up, but hey, nobody’s perfect.

The defense usually includes players like Diego Godín and José María Giménez, both central defenders who are strong in the air and tough in tackles. On the sides, you might see Matías Viña and Marcos Cáceres as fullbacks, who often support the attack but also have to be careful not to leave gaps behind. Honestly, their defense is one of the stronger parts of the team, but sometimes they get caught out by fast wingers.

In midfield, Uruguay relies on players like Lucas Torreira and Federico Valverde, who are energetic and good at both defending and pushing forward. Valverde can be a bit unpredictable, maybe it’s just me, but I feel like he sometimes tries too hard to do everything on his own. Alongside them, you might find Matías Vecino or Rodrigo Bentancur, who help in controlling the game tempo and distributing the ball.

Up front, the attack is usually led by Edinson Cavani and Luis Suárez, two veterans with tons of experience and goal-scoring records. These guys are the heart of Uruguay’s offense, and even if they ain’t in their best form, their presence on the pitch makes a difference. Sometimes, younger players like Facundo Pellistri get a chance to show their skills and bring fresh energy.

• Probable Starting Eleven gives a snapshot of the team’s core players.
• Understanding players’ usual positions helps in guessing the tactical setup.
• Even tho lineups can change last minute, knowing key players is useful.

So, yeah, while some people might think lineup details are boring or just stats, for fans and analysts it’s a big deal. It tells you how the team might try to win, who to watch out for, and maybe even who could be the weak link. Not really sure why this matters, but it’s kinda fun to guess how the game will play out based on these lineups.

Hope this gives you a clear idea about the Uruguay national football team probable starting lineup and what to expect from them on the field. If you wanna keep track of their performance, knowing these players and their usual roles is a good place to start.

Colombia Starting Lineup Overview

When it comes to the Colombia national team’s expected starters in the upcoming game, there’s a lot to unpack here, even if not all of it makes perfect sense at first glance. The lineup is looking pretty solid on paper, but like always, there’s some question marks about how well these players will gel together on the field. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like the team’s strength lies in its midfield, where creativity and control usually shines through, but sometimes it also struggles with consistency, which could be a problem against a tough opponent like Uruguay.

Let’s take a deeper look at the probable starters. The defense is expected to be anchored by some experienced players who’ve been around the block, but their speed and coordination might not be as sharp as before, which could leave gaps. The fullbacks are good at pushing forward, but sometimes they leave the flanks exposed, and that’s something the coach will have to fix quickly. In goal, Colombia relies on a keeper who’s known for his reflexes but occasionally makes some questionable decisions under pressure. Not really sure why this matters, but it’s worth keeping an eye on.

One of the biggest strengths of Colombia’s lineup is the blend of youth and experience, which sometimes work well, but sometimes it’s like mixing oil and water. The midfielders like James Rodríguez and Mateus Uribe are expected to control the tempo and dish out some killer passes, but their form has been a bit up and down lately, so it’s hard to say if they will really dominate the middle of the park. The attack has some pacey and physical forwards, who can cause trouble for defenders, but finishing chances is sometimes a problem, which could cost them dearly in a tight game.

• Strengths: Creative midfield, physical forwards, experienced defense.
• Weaknesses: Defensive gaps, inconsistent midfield, shaky finishing.
• Key question: Will the team’s chemistry hold up under pressure?

In conclusion, Colombia’s starting lineup has the tools to perform well, but there’s a few weak spots that might get exploited by Uruguay’s sharp attack. Not really sure why this matters, but the coach’s tactical decisions could make or break the game, especially in how they balance defense and attack. If you’re looking for a deep dive into Colombia football team expected starters strengths and weaknesses, this overview should give you a pretty clear picture, even if it’s a bit messy at times.

Key Players to Watch in Uruguay

When it comes to the most influential players in Uruguay squad, there’s a handful of names that really stand out, even if you’re not a die-hard fan of the team or football in general. Not really sure why this matters, but understanding who these players are gives you a better idea of how Uruguay might perform in their upcoming matches. So, let’s dive into some of the key figures who have been making waves recently and what they brings to the team dynamic.

First up, you can’t talk about Uruguay without mentioning Luis Suárez. This guy has been a goal-scoring machine for years, and even though he might be slowing down a bit compared to his peak days, he still got that killer instinct in front of goal. Suárez’s experience and leadership on the pitch is something younger players looks up to, and his ability to create chances out of nowhere is just insane. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like when Suárez is on form, Uruguay becomes a totally different beast.

Another player who’s been getting lots of attention is Federico Valverde. This young midfielder is like a engine in the middle of the park, running up and down tirelessly. His recent performances shows he can control the game tempo and also contribute defensively. Valverde’s versatility is quite impressive, and he adds a lot of energy to the team. Honestly, sometimes I wonder if he ever gets tired, because he seems to be everywhere during the match.

Don’t forget about José María Giménez, the defender who’s been rock solid at the back. His aerial ability and tackling skills makes him a cornerstone of Uruguay’s defense. Lately, Giménez has been crucial in stopping opposition attacks, and his partnership with other defenders is something the team really depends on. Without him, things could get messy in defense, which is not what you want when facing strong attacking teams.

• Luis Suárez: Brings goals and experience, but sometimes his form dips unexpectedly.
• Federico Valverde: The engine of the midfield, controls the tempo and adds defensive cover.
• José María Giménez: Defensive rock, strong in aerial duels and tackles.

Overall, these players not only bring their individual skills but also influence the team dynamic in Uruguay national football team. Their recent performances have been a mixed bag, but when they click together, Uruguay looks like a team that can challenge anyone. Maybe the chemistry isn’t always perfect, but the potential is definitely there. So, if you wanna keep an eye on the game, these are the guys to watch out for, because they often decide how the match will go.

In conclusion, while there are many players in the squad, the impact of these key figures cannot be overstated. Their form, attitude, and how they gel with the rest of the squad could be the difference between a win or a loss. And honestly, who doesn’t like a bit of drama and excitement in football? So yeah, keep these names in your mind next time Uruguay takes the field.

Key Players to Watch in Colombia

When we talk about the star players in Colombia national football team, there is a lot to unpack, and honestly, it’s not always clear who will step up the most. But maybe it’s just me, I feel like some of these players could really change the game if they put their mind to it. Colombia has a mix of experienced veterans and young talents, and their recent form looks promising, though not always consistent, which can be frustrating to watch sometimes.

• James Rodríguez is probably the most well-known, but his form can be a bit up and down, not sure why sometimes he looks like a genius and other times just invisible.
• Duván Zapata has been scoring goals for fun, and if he keeps this up, Uruguay defenders might have a really hard time.
• Davinson Sánchez is solid at the back, and his ability to read the game could be crucial, especially if Colombia wants to keep a clean sheet.

It’s also important to note that Colombia’s midfield has been working hard to control the game tempo, but sometimes they struggle to keep possession under pressure. Maybe its just me, but I think this is where the game could be won or lost. The creativity from the midfielders like Juan Cuadrado also adds unpredictability to their attack, which can be a headache for Uruguay’s defense.

Practical Insights:- Watch for how James Rodríguez distributes the ball in the attacking third.- Zapata’s positioning inside the box will be key for scoring chances.- Defensive coordination led by Davinson Sánchez will test Uruguay’s forwards.

So, in conclusion, these key players in Colombia team bring a mix of skill, experience, and sometimes inconsistency, but if they hit their peak on the match day, they definitely could be the difference makers. Not really sure why this matters, but I feel like keeping an eye on these guys will make watching the game way more interesting.

Comparing Tactical Formations

When it comes to analyzing the tactical formations of both Uruguay National Football Team and Colombia National Football Team, there’s quite a bit to unpack, even if you’re not really sure why this matters, but it’s worth to know. Both teams have their own unique styles and strategies that they might employ during the match, and these could be crucial in deciding the outcome. So, let’s dive in and see what these formations might look like and how they could affect the game.

• Uruguay’s Formation: Usually, Uruguay prefers a more traditional 4-4-2 setup, but lately, they have been switching to a 4-3-3 when they want to be more aggressive upfront. This gives them flexibility, but sometimes it makes their midfield look a bit crowded or disorganized, especially against teams that like to keep the ball.
• Colombia’s Formation: Colombia often opts for a 4-2-3-1 formation which allows their creative midfielders to shine and control the tempo. They like to press high and keep possession, but this can leave gaps in their defense that Uruguay might exploit with fast breaks.

Key Tactical Insights:- Uruguay’s defense is usually very disciplined, focusing on closing spaces and not giving much room for the opponent forwards.- Colombia relies heavily on midfield creativity, which can be a double-edged sword if their defense is caught off guard.- Both teams might adjust their formations during the game depending on the scoreline; expect some tactical shifts.

Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like the midfield battle will be the most interesting part here. Uruguay’s midfielders are more about grit and hard work, while Colombia’s are more about flair and passing. This contrast in styles could make or break the game.

To sum up, the tactical approaches of Uruguay and Colombia are quite different but equally effective in their own ways. Uruguay’s strength lies in their solid defensive structure and quick counters, whereas Colombia banks on their possession and creativity to break down defenses. Both teams will have to be careful about their weaknesses, especially when transitioning from defense to attack.

In the end, the team that adapts better to the flow of the game and manages to exploit the other’s weaknesses will probably come out on top. So, keep an eye on how these formations evolve as the match progresses because, well, football is unpredictable and that’s what makes it so exciting!

Goalkeeper Battle: Who’s Likely to Shine?

When it comes to the goalkeeper battle in Uruguay vs Colombia match, things get pretty interesting, not gonna lie. Both teams have some solid shot-stoppers, but their past performances tell different stories, and maybe it’s just me, but I feel like this position could be the real game changer.

On Uruguay side, Fernando Muslera is the main man between the sticks. He have been the backbone for Uruguay for years, showing great reflexes and leadership. Although his age might be catching up, he still pulls off some amazing saves that leave fans in awe. His experience in big tournaments is something Colombia’s goalkeeper might struggle to match. But hey, not really sure why this matters, because sometimes age just brings wisdom, right?

Colombia’s goalkeeper, David Ospina, bring a different kind of style to the game. He’s known for his agility and quick decision-making, which is crucial when facing Uruguay’s aggressive forwards. Ospina has been consistent in his club performances, but international matches can be a whole different beast. It’s like, you can be great in league games, but the pressure of representing your country sometimes make you nervous, or so I heard.

• Muslera’s ability to organize the defense has been praised by many coaches, but sometimes he can be a bit too confident, leading to mistakes.
• Ospina’s shot-stopping skills are top-notch, especially in one-on-one situations, but his command of the penalty area is sometimes questioned.
• Both goalkeepers have faced high-pressure moments before, but the mental toughness will be tested hard in this game.

Honestly, predicting who will come out on top here is like flipping a coin. Sometimes Muslera’s experience wins the day, other times Ospina’s agility makes the difference. Maybe it’s just me, but I think the team’s defense in front of them will play a huge role too. A goalkeeper can only do so much if the defenders are letting attackers run wild.

In conclusion, the goalkeeper showdown Uruguay vs Colombia is gonna be a crucial subplot in the match. Whether it’s Muslera’s seasoned presence or Ospina’s energetic saves, the fans are in for a treat. Just hope neither of them make any blunders, because those moments can change the whole game in a blink.

Defensive Lineups and Their Impact

Examining the defenders in both teams, Uruguay and Colombia, is kinda important, even if some might say it’s not the most exciting part of the game. But hey, defense wins games, right? So, let’s dive into what the defensive lineups of Uruguay and Colombia national football teams look like, and why their performance could totally swing the match’s outcome. Not really sure why this matters, but it’s worth to know who’s standing strong at the back.

So, Uruguay’s defense is pretty solid with veterans like Godín, who’s been around forever and knows how to organize the backline. But sometimes their defenders can be a bit slow, which might give Colombia’s speedy attackers some chances. Colombia’s defenders are younger and may not have the same level of experience, but they compensate with raw physical power and quick reactions. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like Colombia’s defense might get a bit overwhelmed if Uruguay’s forwards press high.

• Diego Godín: The captain’s leadership and positioning are crucial, but his pace is not what it used to be.
• José María Giménez: Reliable and tough, though he sometimes commits fouls trying to stop attackers.
• Ronald Araújo: Young and energetic, brings fresh legs but lacks experience in pressure moments.
• Davinson Sánchez: Strong in tackles but can be caught out of position.
• Yerry Mina: Excellent in the air, often a threat during set-pieces.
• William Tesillo: Versatile defender, but sometimes struggles against tricky wingers.

The way these defenders play could totally influence the game’s flow. If Uruguay’s backline stays organized and doesn’t get caught out by Colombia’s fast breaks, they could shut down many attacks. On the other hand, if Colombia’s defenders manage to press high and force mistakes, they might create some good counter-attacking opportunities. Not saying it’s gonna be easy for either side, but defense will definitely be a key factor in deciding the match outcome.

In conclusion, both teams have their defensive pros and cons. It’s gonna be interesting to watch how the defensive strategies of Uruguay and Colombia national football teams unfold, and which side’s defenders can keep their cool under pressure. Because, honestly, a game can be won or lost right at the back.

Midfield Dynamics: Control and Creativity

When talking about the midfield players, it’s like they are the heart of the team, you know? They don’t just run around aimlessly, they really control the game tempo and also create chances for scoring. It’s not really clear to everyone why midfield is so important, but trust me, without them, the whole team looks lost. The midfielders are the ones who decide when to speed up the game or when to slow it down. They are like the conductors of an orchestra, but instead of music, its football. Sometimes, it feels like they are the unsung heroes, because the forwards get all the glory with goals, but without the midfielders feeding them the ball, nothing happens.

• Ball distribution: Midfield players are in charge of passing the ball accurately to teammates, which is harder than it sounds, especially under pressure.
• Game control: They keep possession and dictate the pace, which means they have to be very smart and quick-thinking.
• Creativity: They often come up with unexpected plays that can break the opponent’s defense.

Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like the midfield role is kinda like being the brain of the team. They read the game, anticipate moves, and sometimes do the tricky passes that make the crowd go wild. But, not all midfielders are the same. Some are more defensive, focusing on stopping the other team, while others are attacking-minded, always looking for a chance to assist or score.

And don’t forget, midfielders gotta have great stamina. They run more than anyone else on the pitch, switching from defense to attack in seconds. It’s a tough job, and sometimes fans overlook how much work these players put in. Also, the chemistry between midfielders and forwards is super important. If they don’t click, the team struggles to score. So, the midfielders are the ones who kinda set the stage for the forwards to shine.

In the upcoming match between Uruguay and Colombia, watching the midfield battle will be crucial. Both teams have skilled midfielders who can control possession and create dangerous opportunities. The one who manages to dominate the midfield will probably have the upper hand in the game.

So yeah, midfield dynamics are all about control and creativity, and if you ask me, without a strong midfield, even the best forwards can’t do much. It’s like trying to build a house without a solid foundation, and that’s why this part of the team deserves more attention than it usually gets.

Forward Lineups and Scoring Potential

This part is all about the forwards from both Uruguay and Colombia, and their chances to put the ball in the net, which is like the main goal (pun intended) of the game. Not really sure why this matters so much, but fans and coaches always keep an eye on these players cause they usually decide the match with their goals. Top goal scorers in international football are often the ones who make the difference, and here, we will take a closer look on who might be carrying that responsibility for each team.

• Uruguay forwards: Players like Luis Suárez and Darwin Núñez usually lead the attack. Suárez, despite being a bit older now, still got that killer instinct in front of goal, and his experience could be a big factor. Darwin, on the other hand, is young and hungry, but sometimes he misses the easy chances, which is frustrating for fans.
• Colombia forwards: Colombia got some strong forwards too, like Duván Zapata and Luis Díaz. Zapata’s physical presence in the box is something defenders fear, but he sometimes struggle with consistency. Díaz is fast and skillful, but can he handle the pressure in such a big game? Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like he could really change the game.

When it comes to scoring potential in international matches, it’s not just about who scores more goals but also who create chances and how they fit in the team’s tactics. Uruguay tends to play with a direct style, relying on Suárez’s poaching skills, while Colombia prefer to use fast counterattacks with Díaz leading the charge. Both strategies have their ups and downs, and it’s gonna be interesting to see which one works better.

Key Points to Watch:- Will Suárez continue to be the main goal threat despite his age?- Can Darwin Núñez find his rhythm and finish chances?- How consistent is Duván Zapata in holding up the ball and scoring?- Will Luis Díaz’s pace break through Uruguay’s defense?

Honestly, sometimes you just don’t know what to expect from forwards, they can be on fire or cold as ice. Injuries, confidence, and even the weather can mess up their game. So, while stats and records give us a clue, the real action will be on the pitch. But hey, that’s football, full of surprises!

Injuries and Suspensions Affecting Lineups

When it comes to the upcoming clash between Uruguay National Football Team and Colombia National Football Team, there is always that nagging question about how injuries and suspensions might shake things up. Not really sure why this matters, but it’s worth a close look since these factors can totally change the way coaches set their lineups. Both teams have had some bumps along the road recently, and those could affect who actually steps on the pitch.

Starting with Uruguay, they have been hit with a couple of injury problems that are causing headaches for their manager. The key defender, who usually start almost every game, has been sidelined due to a muscle strain. This means Uruguay might have to bring in a less experienced player in that position, which could leave them vulnerabler at the back. Also, one of their midfielders got a yellow card suspension from previous matches, so he won’t be available for this game. This could force Uruguay to tweak their midfield setup, maybe playing a more defensive or cautious style than usual.

• Uruguay injury updates: Muscle strain for key defender, out for at least 2 weeks
• Suspensions: Midfielder suspended for accumulation of yellow cards
• Possible adaptations: Use of younger defenders, more defensive midfield role

On the other side, Colombia isn’t exactly in the clear either. They have had a couple of players who picked up knocks in recent training sessions, and it’s still uncertain if they will be fit in time for the match. One of their main forwards has a minor ankle injury, and while he is trying hard to recover, there is a chance he might be benched or only come on as a substitute. Plus, Colombia has one player serving a suspension due to a red card received in the last international fixture. This means their attacking options might be slightly limited, forcing the coach to get creative with the lineup.

Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like these injury and suspension issues affecting lineups could really change how both teams approach this game. Coaches might have to abandon their preferred tactics and go with what they got. For example, Uruguay might play more cautiously in defense, while Colombia could rely on counter-attacks more than usual. It’s always interesting to see how teams adapt when their first-choice players are missing.

In terms of strategy, this kind of situation often opens the door for some unexpected players to shine. The younger or less experienced players who come in due to injuries or suspensions might grab their chance to impress the fans and coaching staff. So, while lineups might look different on paper, the actual game could be just as thrilling, if not more.

To sum it all up, both Uruguay and Colombia face some challenges with their squads because of injury and suspension problems. How they adapt will be key to their success in the match. It’s not just about who starts, but how well the replacements can fill the gaps. And honestly, sometimes these unexpected changes make the game more exciting to watch!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the expected starting lineups for Uruguay and Colombia?

  Both teams are likely to field their strongest squads, with Uruguay relying on a balanced mix of experienced defenders and creative midfielders, while Colombia might emphasize attacking flair. However, final lineups often depend on last-minute tactical decisions and player fitness.

• Who are the key players to watch in this matchup?

  For Uruguay, keep an eye on their dynamic forwards and solid midfielders who control the game’s tempo. Colombia boasts star attackers who can change the match with a moment of brilliance. These players are crucial in tipping the scales during tight moments.

• How do the tactical formations of both teams compare?

  Uruguay typically employs a disciplined formation focusing on defensive solidity and quick counterattacks, whereas Colombia might use a more fluid, attacking setup aiming to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities. The clash of these styles often makes for an exciting game.

• Which goalkeeper is favored to perform better?

  Both goalkeepers have impressive track records, but the one who stays calm under pressure and commands the defense effectively could become the hero. Goalkeeping battles often decide close matches, so this is a key position to watch.

• How do injuries and suspensions affect the teams?

  Injuries or suspensions can shake up the expected lineups, forcing coaches to adapt strategies and bring in less experienced players. This unpredictability adds an extra layer of excitement and can sometimes lead to surprising outcomes.

• What impact do the defensive lineups have on the game?

  Strong defensive units can frustrate attackers and control the pace of the game, while weaker defenses might leave gaps for the opposition to exploit. Both teams’ defenders will play a pivotal role in determining the match’s flow and final score.

• How important is midfield control in this match?

  Midfielders act as the engine room, dictating tempo and linking defense with attack. The team that dominates the midfield often controls the game, creating more chances and limiting the opponent’s opportunities.

• What should fans expect from the forward lineups?

  Expect exciting moments from the forwards, as both teams have players capable of scoring spectacular goals. Their ability to convert chances into goals will be critical in deciding the winner.