Darwin Nunez sealed it as Uruguay began their Copa America campaign with a 3-1 win over Panama in Miami, Florida.
The 25-year-old Liverpool striker volleyed home at the near post five minutes of normal time remaining to double Uruguay’s lead following defender Ronald Araujo’s opening goal after 16 minutes.
A third was added in stoppage time by left-back Matias Vina for the 15-time champions, before defender Michael Amir Murillo scored a consolation for Panama.
“As far as Uruguay’s aspirations are concerned, we’ll see that and build it match by match,” Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa said.
“My expectation is that each match will more and more help us to improve our level. Uruguay has players of a very good level and we need to see if I can build with those players.”
Uruguay have been in fine form recently and have been tipped to impress at the Copa America after seeing off Argentina and Brazil in World Cup qualifiers over the past 12 months.
The other game in Group C saw Christian Pulisic score one and create another as the United States breezed to a 2-0 victory over Bolivia in their opening fixture in Arlington, Texas.
The AC Milan frontman curled in a fine opener after three minutes before setting up Monaco striker Folarin Balogun, whose low left-footed finish added a second just before half-time.