Luis Suárez has retired from international football, finishing as the top goal scorer of the Uruguayan national team with 69 goals. The former Liverpool striker is one of the most iconic figures in Uruguayan football history, known for his exceptional talent, tenacity, and sometimes controversial moments. His national team career, spanning from his debut in 2007 to his recent appearances, has been marked by significant achievements and unforgettable incidents.
Suárez’s impact on the Uruguayan national team was immediate, helping La Celeste to a fourth-place finish in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. His two-goal performance against South Korea in the Round of 16 and his infamous handball against Ghana in the quarterfinals, which prevented a certain goal and led to Uruguay’s advancement on penalties, became defining moments of that tournament.
His contributions in 2011 were equally pivotal, as he played a key role in Uruguay’s Copa América victory, scoring four goals and earning the tournament’s Best Player award. His goals put him as second only to Peru’s Paolo Guerrero as the tournament’s highest goal scorer that year and his fourth goal was in the 3-0 win over Paraguay in the final.
Throughout his career, Suárez has been a consistent goal-scorer for Uruguay, becoming the nation’s all-time leading scorer. He played in four World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022) and multiple Copa América tournaments, often leading the line with his aggressive style and technical brilliance. However, his time with the national team has also been marred by controversy, including a nine-match ban for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini during the 2014 World Cup, which overshadowed his contributions to the team.
Despite the controversies, Suárez’s legacy with the national team is one of extraordinary skill and determination. He has been a central figure in Uruguay’s resurgence on the global stage, inspiring a generation of players and fans. His passion, goal-scoring prowess, and ability to rise in crucial moments have solidified his status as one of Uruguay’s greatest footballers.
The 37-year-old currently plays for MLS side Inter Miami with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets.
Image: Jimmy Baikovicius
