Uruguay’s World Cup campaign came to a disappointing end after a narrow defeat to Spain, with another mistake from veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera proving decisive.
Spain, who were already close to confirming their place in the last 32 before the match, secured top spot in Group H through Alex Baena’s first half goal. The result means Luis de la Fuente’s side will now meet the runners up from Group J in the knockout stage.
For Uruguay, the defeat was painful. Marcelo Bielsa’s team needed a positive result to keep their tournament alive, but instead they suffered a second straight group stage exit, finishing with just two points from three matches. Their night became worse in stoppage time when Agustin Canobbio was shown a red card for a high challenge on Pau Cubarsi.
The key moment came in the 42nd minute. Uruguay had enjoyed a strong spell and were pressing Spain well, but Baena turned neatly before sending a low effort towards goal. Muslera got both hands to the shot, yet failed to keep it out. It was his third mistake leading directly to a goal in three games, making him the first goalkeeper on record since 1966 to commit three such errors in a single World Cup.
Uruguay were also frustrated that Spain continued play before the goal while Manuel Ugarte was down following a challenge. The Manchester United midfielder later needed treatment and was carried off on a stretcher.
Bielsa responded at half time by replacing Muslera with Sergio Rochet. It was a huge decision, especially considering Muslera’s legendary status and his 137 international appearances. However, the change did not spark a comeback.
Spain controlled large parts of the second half without fully dominating the scoreboard. They managed only six attempts, with just one on target, and had less possession than their opponents in a World Cup match for the first time since 2002. Still, they remained organised and became the first Spain team to complete a World Cup group stage without conceding.
Uruguay pushed late but rarely troubled Unai Simon. Darwin Nunez, brought back into the starting line up, missed two good chances in quick succession during the first half.
Spain will know improvement is needed before the knockouts, but they showed they can handle a difficult contest. For Bielsa and Uruguay, this exit may mark the end of a disappointing chapter, with Muslera’s substitution standing as the defining image of their tournament.
