GUADALAJARA — Spain finalized their position at the top of Group H in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Uruguay 1-0 at the Guadalajara Stadium on Friday. The result, secured by an Álex Baena goal just before halftime, confirmed Uruguay’s elimination from the tournament after they finished third in the group with two points from three matches.
The decisive moment came in the 42nd minute when Baena capitalized on a low cross from Marcos Llorente.Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, who struggled to handle the strike, allowed the ball to slip into the net.The error prompted head coach Marcelo Bielsa to make a tactical change at the interval, replacing Muslera with Sergio Rochet to stabilize the side.
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Baena Goal + Muslera Mistake End Uruguay’s World Cup
• Result: Spain 1-0 Uruguay, Spain top Group H unbeaten
• Goal: Álex Baena 42' after Llorente cross, Muslera fumble
• Red Card: Agustín Canobbio sent off in stoppage time
• Next: Spain vs Group J runner-up, Los Angeles, July 2
Despite an intense effort to find an equalizer in the second half, La Celeste could not break down a resolute Spanish defense. Uruguay's frustrations boiled over in the closing stages of the match, culminating in a stoppage-time red card for Agustín Canobbio following a late challenge on Pau Cubarsí. Spain’s substitute Ferran Torres also came close to doubling the lead late on, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.
Uruguay concludes a disappointing campaign without a win, having drawn their previous matches against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde. For Spain, the victory ensures they finish the group stage unbeaten, setting them up for a Round of 32 clash against the runner-up from Group J in Los Angeles on July 2, 2026.
