FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain knock out Uruguay with narrow 1-0 win in Group H clash
Zapopan, June 27
Uruguay were eliminated from the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the group stage after Alex Baena's late first-half goal 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.
According to OptaJose X's handle, it is the first time in the history of the World Cup that Spain completed the group stage of the same edition without conceding goals.
It was a disappointing end for Marcelo Bielsa's side, who were forced into a change at half-time after goalkeeper Fernando Muslera's error led to Baena's decisive strike. Uruguay also suffered a setback in injury time when Agustin Canobbio was sent off.
Spain dominated possession for much of the match and eventually broke the deadlock just before half-time. Baena latched onto a low cross from Marcos Llorente inside the box and saw his shot slip past Muslera into the net.
The Uruguay goalkeeper was replaced at half-time by Sergio Rochet as La Celeste looked to recover from the setback.
Uruguay pushed hard in the second half, but Spain's controlled passing and composure kept them at bay. Ferran Torres came close to doubling the lead late on, striking the crossbar.
The match ended on a sour note for Uruguay as Canobbio's late challenge on Pau Cubarsi resulted in a red card, rounding off a difficult tournament for the South American side.
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
Feel a bit bad for Uruguay, they tried hard in the second half but that Muslera error was costly. Baena's goal was clinical though. And a red card to end it all? Tough tournament for Bielsa's boys.
India should take notes from Spain's discipline - no goals conceded in group stage! Imagine if our boys could defend like that in the AFC Asian Cup. Sahi khelna seekho Spain se! 👏
As a neutral, it was a decent match. Spain controlled possession but lacked a cutting edge in the second half. Uruguay fought well but that first-half mistake sealed their fate. Looking forward to the Round of 32!
One thing I noticed - Spain's patience on the ball is unmatched. They wait for the right moment and pounce. Uruguay's frustration showed with that red card. Bielsa needs to rethink his approach for their next campaign. Tough luck, La Celeste. 👍
Disappointing end for Uruguay but they only have themselves to blame. Muslera should have done better with that shot. And Canobbio's red card was just silly. Spain are looking formidable though - that defense is something else.
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