Leaked WhatsApp message shows Luis Suarez’s self-belief before Uruguay heroics

Three goals in four games helped book Uruguay's place in the World Cup

Leaked WhatsApp messages sent by Luis Suarez to his agent have revealed how he was confident of Uruguay's qualification for the Qatar World Cup last summer - even when  it appeared the odds were stacked against them making the tournament.

Uruguay were seventh in the South American qualifying table in November

The Uruguay team have enjoyed an upturn in fortunes in recent games, meaning their 2-0 win against Chile on Tuesday night was enough to clinch their place at the World Cup. Just a few months back and it was a different story. Languishing in seventh in the South American qualifying table, it seemed like it would be a difficult task to ensure qualification. Suarez, though, never doubted his team - or himself. In a conversation with his agent Martin Rodriguez, Suarez vowed that he would do everything he could to make sure his nation would be on the plane to Qatar. The 35-year-old offered stern advice to his representative, simply saying: "We are entering SUAREZ ZONE." https://twitter.com/mrodrigueznader/status/1508987744155947011

Suarez stuck to his word

Following confirmation of Uruguay's qualification, Rodriguez shared the message, to which Suarez replied saying: "I told you so," as well as several laughing emojis. https://twitter.com/LuisSuarez9/status/1508991904372903936 The Atletico Madrid star scored three goals in four games to help Uruguay climb the table and finish third behind Brazil and Argentina, with Peru the fourth and final South American nation to qualify. After the win against Chile, Suarez posted a message with the caption reading: "Special night, special match, special shirt and with a goal. What more can I ask for to live unique and unforgettable moments with MY COUNTRY?" https://twitter.com/LuisSuarez9/status/1508984485093781507 Uruguay will now eagerly await Friday's World Cup draw to see who they are drawn alongside in the group stage. Related links:

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