Spain tops World Cup group, eliminates Uruguay at 2026 tournament

Spain has secured top spot in Group H of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and sent Uruguay home at the group stage following a 1-0 victory in their final match. Alex Baena's first-half goal proved decisive, with the Spanish side now set to face the runners-up from Group J in Los Angeles on 2 July.

Baena's goal came from a well-executed team move, with the forward finishing after controlling a low cross from Marcos Llorente from the left wing. Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera failed to hold the strike, allowing the ball to dribble into the far corner.

The defeat marked a disappointing end to the tournament for Uruguay under manager Marcelo Bielsa. The South American side made a substitution at half-time, bringing off Muslera for Sergio Rochet following the error. Late in the match, Uruguayan midfielder Agustin Canobbio was sent off for a tackle on Pau Cubarsi, compounding a poor campaign.

Spain dominated possession throughout the encounter and could have added a second goal late on, but Barcelona forward Ferran Torres saw his shot hit the crossbar. La Roja's superior passing game and efficiency ultimately proved too much for a struggling Uruguay side.