Two-time champion Uruguay has been eliminated from the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a 1-0 defeat to powerhouse Spain at Guadalajara Stadium on June 27, 2026. The match, played before a crowd of Mexican football fans hoping for a spot in the next round, saw Spain secure the win with a goal just before halftime.
Match Summary
The opening phase of the game was slow in attack, but Spain seized a fortunate opportunity in the 42nd minute. Álex Baena delivered a soft shot that eluded the control of Uruguay's veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, aged 40, and slipped through his hands into the net. The first half ended without any further goals from either side.
Uruguay's situation worsened when striker Manuel Ugarte suffered a severe knee injury during the build-up to Spain's goal, forcing him to leave the match. In extra time, Uruguayan forward Agustín Canobbio was sent off after receiving a red card for arguing with game officials in the 94th minute.
Group Standings
With this victory, Spain secured first place in Group H with 7 points, while debutant team Cape Verde advanced as second-place finishers. Uruguay's elimination marks an early exit for the two-time world champions, who had hoped to progress deeper into the tournament.
According to match reports, Spain's disciplined defense and clinical finishing proved decisive, while Uruguay struggled to recover from the early goal and key injuries. The loss ends Uruguay's campaign in the 2026 World Cup, as Spain moves on to the knockout stages.
