Spain's group victory built on Muslera's costly mistake

Spain secured a 1‑0 victory over Uruguay at the FIFA World Cup, with Alex Baena's first‑half strike confirming their top spot in Group H and sending Uruguay out of the tournament. Fernando Muslera's error led to the goal, prompting Marcelo Bielsa to substitute the 40‑year‑old goalkeeper at halftime, while Agustin Canobbio was sent off in stoppage time. Muslera, on his 137th appearance, committed his third error of the tournament, allowing Baena to score after the goalkeeper only managed two hands on the ball. Marcelo Bielsa responded by bringing on Sergio Rochet at the interval, but Spain maintained control and did not increase their lead. In stoppage time, Agustin Canobbio received a second‑yellow card for a high challenge on Pau Cubarsi and was dismissed. Earlier, Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte collapsed after a challenge, received treatment and left the field on a stretcher, reducing Uruguay's midfield options.

Spain's attack in jeopardy as Nico Williams faces World Cup doubt

Darwin Nunez, restored to the starting XI, missed two clear chances shortly after the halftime break, while goalkeeper Unai Simon remained unbeaten. Late on, substitute Ferran Torres struck the crossbar, but Spain held onto their solitary goal. Spain mustered only six shots, one on target, and held less possession than Uruguay, marking their first World Cup group stage without conceding a goal. Luis de la Fuente's side demonstrated the ability to grind out wins against physical opponents, a trait that may be vital in the knockout rounds. Uruguay's early exit follows a pattern that began at the 2024 Copa America, where the two‑time champions also struggled.

Alex Baena's half‑time strike precedes Uruguay's chaotic second half

Spain's next challenge will be against the Group J runners‑up, either Austria or Algeria, at Los Angeles Stadium on Thursday, 2 July (20:00 BST). The winner of the Group J decider on Sunday, 28 June (03:00 BST) will travel to face La Roja in the round of 16.