ReutersDaniel Sturridge’s effort just before half-time was enough to separate the two teams in a tense game of few chances.
The South Americans went close to an equaliser at the death through Edinson Cavani – whose effort rattled the Team GB crossbar – but were largely restricted to half chances and shots from distance.
“I think when you play anyone in a situation where it is a case of them or us in the last group game it is going to be like that,” Pearce said.
"Overall I am delighted. We beat a very good Uruguay side 1-0. We have to check everyone is okay and prepare them for the next game.”
Liverpool's Craig Bellamy was handed the captain’s armband in the absence of skipper Ryan Giggs, who was rested by Pearce, and the Welshman insists he was proud to take the reins in his birth city.
"We are in Wales. I'm Welsh. I can't explain how proud I am right now," he said.
“Playing three matches in a week can be rough on your body, but I'm feeling good.”
And Bellamy, who was again impressive against Uruguay, would not be drawn on the possibility of facing Brazil, should they overcome the South Koreans back in Cardiff on Saturday.
He added: “We can't talk about potential rivals. Spain are out and I think that tells you anything can happen in this tournament."
Senegal finished second in the group behind Team GB after being held to a 1-1 draw by the United Arab Emirates at the City of Coventry Stadium.
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