MONTEVIDEO, July 6 (Xinhua) -- The President of Uruguay Tabare Vazquez on Friday sent his thanks to the country's national soccer team after their elimination by France from the 2018 Russia World Cup on Friday.

Uruguay, missing its star performer of the tournament Edinson Cavani to injury, were soundly beaten 2-0.

"As president of the Republic and in the name of all Uruguayans, I express the pride we feel to be represented by the Uruguayan national soccer team," said Vazquez in a published statement.

"To the coaching staff, assistants and especially the players, our deepest thanks and congratulations for what you achieved at this World Cup," he added.

The president reiterated that "beyond sporting results, we recognize the dedication, the bravery, the commitment, the loyalty and the chivalry of all the players in defense of the high prestige that Uruguay has in the world."

Vazquez said that "with the end of this sporting moment, others will be opened, in which the people of Uruguay will continue supporting with fervor."

France became the first team to qualify for the semifinals of the competition after goals from Raphael Varane and Antoine Griezmann.