World Cup 2014 - Ossie on Uruguay

Ossie Ardiles sees Uruguay as dark horses in the World Cup.

Our legendary former midfielder and World Cup winner with Argentina knows all about the South American side.

And although he says they qualified 'through the back door' having finished fifth in South America and therefore needing a play-off - they hammered Jordan to get to Brazil - Ossie feels Uruguay can certainly make an impact in the tournament.

"Uruguay didn't qualify particularly well but I believe this is a very strong team," said Ossie.

"They are very powerful in defence and midfield, very combative, lots of pressure and always a difficult team to beat but this time with Cavani and Suarez up front, these two guys are very significant especially Suarez, who had an outstanding season in the Premier League.

"Atletico Madrid finished the season strongly, won La Liga, reached the Champions League Final and finished with confidence and the most important player of all of them in the central defender, Godin, who scored in the final. These are very good players.

"I believe there are only a few teams who can beat Brazil in Brazil and Uruguay is one of them."

Ossie reckons Uruguay will go all out for victory in their opener against Costa Rica today.

"They know they have to win this game, simple as that. If they draw, they will take a lot of pressure into the second game against England, so from the beginning, they know they are better, there is a gap in quality, so they will go for it.

"People may underestimate Costa Rica, they won’t be easy to beat. I don’t think they will qualify out of the group because the other three teams are so strong, however, I believe they will take a point off a couple of teams and that could be crucial in a difficult group.

"England, Italy and Uruguay are so close, it could be of paramount importance. No game in the World Cup is easy because of the pressure and so many other factors, and this group is very close."

Uruguay vs Costa Rica - 8pm UK

England vs Italy - 11pm UK