Nicolas Lodeiro scored his team’s second goal and provided the assist for their third to help Nacional defeat Penarol 3-0 in the Uruguayan derby on Sunday.
All I was lacking was that objective. I had participated in the Copa Libertadores and won the Uruguayan championship with Nacional, but the most essential goal remained to be accomplished: scoring in a Clasico, the player told Ovacion Digital.
Nacional took an early lead and controlled the game, but they were unable to double their advantage until the 28th minute when Lodeiro found himself in the area unmarked after a one-two with Mario Regueiro. The young playmaker then eluded Penarol goalkeeper Sebastian Sosa and tapped the ball into an empty net.
“That goal was nice. I was delighted to see the replay after the game on the stadium’s enormous screen.
After representing the Uruguayan national team in the FIFA U20 World Cup in Egypt, Lodeiro missed the first half of the Apertura competition. The youth international has scored five goals in six games since rejoining the team, making him Nacional’s top scorer.
He had a fantastic chance to add to his score against Penarol in the second half when he scooped up a loose ball in midfield, raced past defenders who were scrambling, and unleashed a strong effort that beat the keeper but bounced off the post.
“I had horrible luck with that shot, but the most important thing is that we won the match,”
The victory retained Nacional in exclusive possession of the Apertura championship lead with 30 points and dropped Penarol to fifth place with 23 points, eliminating their chances of taking home the trophy.
“Leaving Penarol out of the event completely gave this classico a unique feel. I’m a big fan of Nacional, and this was the game that mattered the most to us. Fortunately, we were able to prevail.
Lodeiro endured a good amount of crunching tackles, at times three people marking him, and frustration from the defense the whole game.
“That’s how all clasicos are; there’s usually a lot of chatting. Although I never spoke to them, it was expected because the last incident had been similar. This time, I was more prepared since I knew I didn’t have to pay attention to anyone except myself and my game.
He smiled and remarked, “A lot of stuff that stays on the pitch,” when asked what they said to him. But nothing pleasant.
Due to his physique and playing style, Lodeiro is frequently likened to Lionel Messi of Barcelona. However, the talented midfielder is determined to remain at Nacional for the time being.
“Staying here till after the World Cup would be fantastic for me. I want to get to South Africa in top shape, but if I leave the country right now, I’ll have to get used to a new league and there’s a good possibility I won’t see much action. Additionally, Nacional will play in the Copa Libertadores in 2019. I don’t need to rush because I’m doing great right now.
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