Footballer Requires Oxygen in Uruguay’s Goalless Draw Against Bolivia Due to Altitude

José María Giménez had to receive oxygen during the final moments of Uruguay’s World Cup qualifier against Bolivia due to the challenging altitude at Municipal Stadium El Alto. The match, played on March 25, 2025, ended in a 0-0 draw, with both teams failing to score.

Located 13,450 feet above sea level, Municipal Stadium El Alto is one of the highest football stadiums globally, and the intense altitude significantly affected the players’ performances. The extreme conditions took their toll on Uruguay's Giménez, who required medical assistance in the form of oxygen to complete the game.

This result, while a draw, had broader ramifications for the South American World Cup qualifiers, with Argentina securing their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, becoming the first team from the continent to do so.