Forlan's swerving equaliser deceives Dutch keeper

Diego Forlan hopes to be fit for the World Cup third-place match despite suffering a thigh injury.

The Uruguay striker was substituted in 83rd minute of their semi-final defeat by the Netherlands.

"I had some tiredness in my thigh when I started the game and it was difficult," said the 31-year-old.

"I want to play for that third place because even that would be great for everyone. Then I hope to have a big holiday because I am really tired."

Forlan is still in contention to win the Golden Boot for the World Cup's leading scorer.

He has been on target four times so far, the same total as German duo Miroslav Klose and Thomas Mueller and just one fewer than Netherlands star Wesley Sneijder and David Villa of Spain.

Forlan had to shoulder extra responsibility in the semi-final because strike partner Luis Suarez was suspended.

606: DEBATE Forlan, Spain has blossomed him, how many Prem clubs will be looking at him this Summer? Menghu

Forlan duly scored Uruguay's opening goal, but was unable to prevent his side losing 3-2 to the Dutch.

"I was limping and I was trying to stay in the game but in the end I could not help anybody," said the Atletico Madrid striker.

Despite Forlan's disappointment against the Netherlands, the former Manchester United forward said it had been "the best year of my career".

He added: "Winning the Europa League with Atletico Madrid, reaching that final and then reaching another semi-final of the World Cup is just great.

"But we are still so disappointed because we were so close to a World Cup final and we have missed a great chance."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version