June 27: Spain secured a place at the top of Group H after defeating Uruguay 1-0 in their final FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match, while the defeat brought Uruguay’s campaign to a disappointing end.
The decisive moment came just before halftime when Álex Baena found the back of the net in the 42nd minute, scoring the only goal of a tightly contested encounter. The midfielder capitalised on a goalkeeping error to hand Spain a crucial victory.
The win saw Spain finish first in Group H with seven points and a +5 goal difference, comfortably booking its place in the Round of 32.
Uruguay struggled to create clear scoring opportunities throughout the match and finished third in the group with just two points and a -1 goal difference, resulting in their elimination from the tournament.
The exit marks Uruguay’s second consecutive FIFA World Cup group-stage elimination, raising fresh questions about the team’s recent performances on football’s biggest stage.
Elsewhere in Group H, Cape Verde made history by advancing to the knockout stage in its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, finishing second in the group with three points after drawing its final match. Saudi Arabia finished bottom of the standings and was eliminated on goal difference.
Spain’s disciplined defensive display ensured Uruguay was unable to find an equaliser, allowing La Roja to finish the group stage unbeaten and carry valuable momentum into the knockout rounds.
With qualification secured, Spain will now prepare for the Round of 32, while Uruguay heads home after another disappointing World Cup campaign.
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