Oscar Tabarez’s side secured top spot in Group A with a comfortable 3-0 win over Russia in Samara, Suarez sweeping home an early free-kick before Cavani lashed in from close range in the final minute.
In the second round, Uruguay will meet Group B runners-up Portugal, who toiled to a 1-1 draw with Iran to allow Spain to steal in and take first place.
Centre-back Coates replaced the injured Jose Gimenez alongside Diego Godin for the clash against the hosts, and dealt admirably with the considerable physical threat of Artem Dzyuba as Uruguay completed a 100 per cent group-stage campaign without conceding a goal.
“We know we have to defend and they [Suarez and Cavani] will score,” Coates told reporters.
“For us, it is perfect. If we defend well, we know we will score.
“We have a good team, and you know when you see Luis and Edi running you just hit them.”
