Admired, But Unforgiven
A single handball near the goal line in Johannesburg’s Soccer City Stadium has cost Luis Suarez the respect he used to earn from the public. Still, the striker is believed to be admired by many, as his form and talent do not seem to have diminished since then.
Luis Suarez, currently a Liverpool player, has long entertained his spectators with amazing displays – characterized with great goalscoring abilities. Under his national team’s jersey, the 24-year-old has served as a pivotal contributor to the recent rise of Uruguay. Suarez is expected to participate in the Copa America as a regular starter for his side for the first time in his career.
Lowlights and Highlights
Regardless of the efforts he puts in his game, Suarez has poorly been able to escape horrific moments in his career. Below, we look at some of his lowlights and highlights at international level (youth tournament episodes excluded):
Lowlight
2010 World Cup Quarterfinals: The striker turned into a negative figure while playing against Ghana. In order to help Uruguay survive, Suarez punched the ball away on the touch-line as the Ghanaians were on the verge of clinching a late winner to prevent the match from going to penalties. Since his handball took place inside the 18-yard box, the Black Stars were awarded a chance from the spot; but a miss from Asamoah Gyan brought great joy to the then-Ajax ace, who perhaps had not yet realized that he had just been labelled as “The Devil himself” by many watchers.
Highlights
2010 World Cup Round of 16: Suarez scored both goals in his country’s memorable 2-1 victory over Korea Republic.
Strength and Weaknesses
As an agitated and relentless dribbler, Suarez is extremely hard to contain for almost any defender. He is fearless in front of goal, and has great accuracy in wide positions. Firing long-range shots and scoring in the air are part of his wonderful aptitudes; yet, he has much work to do when it comes to his behaviour. His reputation is far from being positive in referees’ books, and his body language has without doubt prevented him from reaching greater heights in his years as a professional.
The video below shows tricks and moves done by Suarez in his time with the Reds.
Current Form and Condition
Being in good physical shape, the player is guaranteed his place in the Uruguayan line-ups during the Copa America. He was transferred from Ajax to Liverpool in the winter transfer window this year, and he clearly doesn’t look set to leave Anfield just yet.
Relevant Quote
“(Hosts) Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay are the historic favourites. But Chile and Paraguay, who played brilliantly in the (2010) World Cup qualifiers, will be dangerous rivals. I hope the Copa America will be a great tournament, and that Uruguay succeeds.”
