Spain secured the top spot in Group H and eliminated two-time champion Uruguay from the World Cup with a 1-0 victory at Estadio Guadalajara. Midfielder Álex Baena scored the decisive goal late in the first half, condemning Marcelo Bielsa’s squad to a disastrous second consecutive group-stage exit.
The breakthrough came in the 42nd minute following a crucial mistake by veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera. He mishandled a cross from Marcos Llorente, allowing Baena to capitalize and put the Europeans ahead. Uruguay’s hopes were further derailed when midfielder Manuel Ugarte left the pitch with a knee injury in the first half, and their frustrating night ended with ten men after Agustín Canobbio received a straight red card for a reckless stoppage-time tackle, FOX Sports confirmed.
The result leaves Uruguay stranded in third place with just two points. Their departure clears the path for tournament debutants Cape Verde, who secured a historic knockout stage berth following a 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia in Houston. The island nation had already positioned themselves well after an earlier 2-2 draw with Uruguay. Cape Verde’s squad and coaching staff watched the final minutes of the Guadalajara match on phones from the pitch, erupting into celebration once the full-time whistle confirmed their progression, Al Jazeera reported.
Spain finishes the group stage undefeated with seven points and a goal differential. They now head to Inglewood, California, for a Round of 32 clash against the runner-up of Group J, which will be either Austria or Algeria.