Miami Gardens: Uruguay began their Copa America campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Panama on Sunday night at Hard Rock Stadium, marking a promising start in their quest for a record 16th Copa America title.

Maximiliano Araújo opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a spectacular long-range strike into the top corner, showcasing his precision with a left-footed shot past goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera. It was Araújo's second goal in nine international appearances, setting the tone for Uruguay's dominant performance.

Despite Uruguay's 20 shots, with seven on target, they had to wait until the 85th minute to double their lead. Darwin Núñez capitalised on a turnover in midfield, receiving a cross that deflected to him after an initial header by Araújo. Núñez calmly volleyed home from 12 yards, securing his ninth goal in his last six matches for Uruguay.

Matías Viña sealed the victory in stoppage time, rising above Panama's defence to head in Nicolás de la Cruz's free kick. It was Viña's first international goal, highlighting Uruguay's depth and effectiveness in both attack and defence.

Panama managed to pull one back in the dying moments of the match when Amir Murillo scored from close range in stoppage time, but it was a mere consolation goal as Uruguay secured all three points.

The match drew a crowd of 33,425 spectators at Hard Rock Stadium, which will also host the Copa America final on July 14 and multiple games during the 2026 World Cup.

Looking ahead, Uruguay faces Bolivia in East Rutherford, New Jersey, while Panama takes on the United States in Atlanta. The group stage concludes with Uruguay meeting the U.S. in Kansas City, Missouri, and Panama facing Bolivia in Orlando, Florida. The top two teams from the group will advance to the quarterfinals.

Under the guidance of Argentine coach Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay has undergone a rebuilding phase following the retirements of stalwarts like Edinson Cavani and Diego Godín. The team has shown promise, defeating strong opponents in World Cup qualifiers and impressing with a recent 4-0 victory over Mexico in a friendly.

While Luis Suárez, Uruguay's veteran striker and all-time leading scorer, did not feature in the opener, the team's youthful vigour and tactical discipline under Bielsa bode well for their Copa America aspirations. Bielsa acknowledged Argentina as strong contenders for the title but expressed confidence in Uruguay's gradual improvement with each match.

Goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera's efforts with four saves kept Panama within reach, highlighting Uruguay's need for clinical finishing to secure victories in competitive fixtures. AP