Uruguay striker Luis Suarez said that the absence of fellow attacker Edinson Cavani from the line-up was decisive in the team's 0-2 loss to France in their FIFA World Cup quarter-final match here on Friday. The PSG striker was kept from playing by an injury suffered in the Round-of-16 match against Portugal, where he scored both of Uruguay's goals. "Cavani has been essential for us because of the class of player he is. He scored two goals, and those who took his place did it in the best possible way and gave their all for the team. But that's no excuse," Suarez said.

He also spoke about veteran head coach Oscar Tabarez and the possibility he will continue after his contract ends following the World Cup. "Everyone knows what El Maestro means to the team and to Uruguay. For all he has done and for all the respect he has won. I believe what's called for at this point is to evaluate El Maestro's work up to now and await the good news," Suarez said.