Spain Defeats Uruguay 1-0 in Group H Clash
Uruguay were eliminated from the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the group stage after Alex Baena's late first-half goal helped Spain secure a 1-0 victory and top spot in Group H. The match took place at Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Mexico, on June 26, 2026.
Baena's decisive strike came in the 42nd minute, latching onto a low cross from Marcos Llorente inside the box. The shot slipped past Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, who was at fault for the goal. This was Spain's first victory against Uruguay in World Cup history; the prior two meetings ended in draws.
Spain's Defensive Record and Group Standings
According to OptaJose, this is the first time in World Cup history that Spain completed the group stage without conceding a single goal. Spain finished Group H with two wins, one draw, and zero losses. Cabo Verde had three draws, Uruguay had one draw and two losses, and Saudi Arabia also had one draw and two losses.
Spain will now face the runners-up from Group J in the Round of 32 in Los Angeles on July 2. Alex Baena was named Player of the Match for his performance.
Uruguay's Disappointing Exit
For Marcelo Bielsa's Uruguay side, the defeat marked a disappointing end to their campaign. Muslera's error led to the goal, and he was replaced at half-time by Sergio Rochet. Uruguay pushed hard in the second half but could not breach Spain's defense. Ferran Torres hit the crossbar late on for Spain.
The match ended on a sour note for Uruguay as Agustin Canobbio was sent off in injury time for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi. This red card capped a difficult tournament for the South American team.
