Spain finished top of Group H at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1-0 victory over Uruguay, whose hopes of reaching the knockout stage ended with another costly error from veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.
Alex Baena scored the only goal of the match in the 42nd minute, firing a low shot past Muslera after the 40-year-old failed to keep out an effort he got both hands on. The mistake marked Muslera’s third error leading to a goal in as many group matches.
Uruguay were unhappy with the build-up to Spain’s goal, believing play should have been stopped after midfielder Manuel Ugarte went down injured. The Manchester United player later left the field on a stretcher.
Head coach Marcelo Bielsa substituted Muslera at half-time, replacing him with Sergio Rochet. However, Uruguay struggled to create clear chances despite pushing for an equaliser in the closing stages.
Former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez missed two good opportunities, while Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon was rarely troubled. Ferran Torres nearly doubled Spain’s lead late on but struck the crossbar.
Uruguay’s night worsened in stoppage time when Agustin Canobbio was sent off for a high challenge on Pau Cubarsi.
The defeat leaves Uruguay with just two points from three matches, confirming a second consecutive World Cup group-stage exit. Spain advance to the last 32 as Group H winners and will face the runners-up from Group J.
