Uruguay’s World Cup campaign came to an end following a 1-0 defeat to Spain, with another mistake by veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera playing a decisive role. Marcelo Bielsa made the dramatic decision to replace the 40-year-old at half-time after his latest costly error, but the change failed to alter the outcome.
Spain had effectively secured qualification before kick-off, yet Alex Baena’s goal just before the interval ensured they finished top of Group H. As group winners, the European champions will now meet the runners-up from Group J in the last 32.
Uruguay’s disappointing evening worsened deep into stoppage time when Agustin Canobbio received a red card after catching Pau Cubarsi with a high challenge, ending the match with 10 men.
Defeat left Bielsa’s side on just two points from three matches, condemning them to a second consecutive group-stage elimination at the World Cup.
Muslera’s error changes the contest
After surviving a sustained spell of pressure from Uruguay, Spain found the breakthrough in the 42nd minute. Baena turned sharply before sending a low effort towards goal, and although Muslera got both hands to the shot, he could not prevent it from crossing the line.
The Uruguay players protested in the build-up because Spain continued attacking after Manuel Ugarte went to ground following what appeared to be an innocuous challenge. The midfielder was later treated on the field before being carried off on a stretcher.
Having committed his third goal-leading mistake in three group matches, Muslera was withdrawn during the interval, with Sergio Rochet taking over in goal for the second half.
Spain control proceedings while Uruguay fades
The goalkeeper switch did little to change the pattern of the game as Spain dictated much of the second period, although they were unable to extend their advantage.
Uruguay attempted a late rally in search of an equaliser but rarely troubled Unai Simon. Darwin Nunez, restored to the starting line-up, squandered two promising opportunities within two minutes shortly after the first-half cooling break.
Although Bielsa’s side had enjoyed their best spell before conceding, they only began applying real pressure during the closing stages. Spain almost added another goal when substitute Ferran Torres struck the crossbar before comfortably seeing out the victory.
The result also marked Spain’s second win of the tournament, their first time recording multiple victories at a World Cup since lifting the trophy in 2010.
Spain progress with confidence as Bielsa’s project raises questions
Spain responded well after criticism of their goalless draw with Cape Verde by defeating Saudi Arabia 4-0, and this latest success demonstrated they could overcome a physical and determined opponent even without producing their best football.
Luis de la Fuente’s team managed only six shots, with just one on target, and finished with less possession than Uruguay. It was also the first time since 2002 that Spain had less of the ball than their opponents in a World Cup fixture. Despite that, La Roja completed the group stage without conceding a goal for the first time.
For Uruguay, the early exit continued a disappointing pattern that began during the 2024 Copa America. Their trademark intensity under Bielsa was rarely visible during the tournament, and against Spain they registered only one effort on target despite brief periods of aggressive pressing.
Bielsa had persuaded Muslera to return from international retirement earlier this year, but the experienced goalkeeper became the first player in his position since records began in 1966 to make three errors leading directly to goals during a single World Cup. His substitution may become the defining image of Uruguay’s unsuccessful campaign.