FIFA World Cup 2026: Injury worry for Spain as Nico Williams, Yeremy Pino limp off in Uruguay victory
Zapopan, June 28
Spain left Guadalajara with a 1-0 win over Uruguay and top spot in FIFA World Cup Group H, but the result was overshadowed by injury concerns to Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino, which could leave the European champions facing a shortage of options on the wings.
Williams was forced off with a groin issue, while Pino required treatment late in the second half after sustaining a shoulder knock, though he managed to complete the match.
"(Williams had) a slight discomfort. It might be a strain, or maybe just fatigue," coach Luis de la Fuente told reporters as per Reuters.
"The worst part is the tremendous pain we feel over what's happening with Yeremy, he might miss the (rest of the) World Cup," he added, defining what Pino did as "heroic".
Uruguay were eliminated from the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the group stage after Alex Baena's late first-half goal (42nd minute) helped Spain secure top spot in Group H.
Spain will now face the runners-up from Group J in the Round of 32 in Los Angeles on July 2. This is Spain's first victory against Uruguay at the FIFA World Cup. The prior two games ended in a draw. La Roja's Alex Baena was named Player of the Match.
Group H standings ended with Spain playing three matches with two wins, one draw and zero losses. Cabo Verde played three matches with zero wins, three draws and zero losses.
Uruguay played three matches with zero wins, two losses and one draw. Saudi Arabia played three matches with zero wins, two losses and 1 draw.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Tough luck for Uruguay, but honestly, they didn't look sharp in this group. Spain is a machine — even with injuries, their bench is full of quality. Baena's goal was pure class. 👌
De la Fuente calling Pino's effort "heroic" says a lot. Playing through a shoulder knock for the team — that's the spirit India needs in our own football development. Injuries happen, but Spain's system ensures they'll cope. Jalwa hai Spain ka! 🔥
First win over Uruguay in World Cup history for Spain — that's a stat that stands out. But the injury news is concerning. Groin and shoulder issues can linger. Hope they manage it well before the next game. Knockout football is unforgiving.
As someone who follows European football closely, Spain's biggest strength is their tactical flexibility. Even without Williams and Pino, they have Olmo, Torres, and others ready. My only concern: over-relying on possession without a finisher could hurt them in later stages. Just saying. 🤔
Uruguay out, Saudi Arabia drew with them — yaar, that's a big result for Asian football! Spain vs runner-up of Group J will be a cracker. But please, no more injuries for La Roja. We want a full-strength team for the knockouts! 🇮🇳🙏
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