Spain beats Uruguay 1-0 to seal World Cup 2026 round‑of‑32 spot

Spain defeated Uruguay 1‑0 in the final group‑stage match of the 2026 World Cup, securing a place among the last‑32 teams. The match was held at Estadio Akron in Mexico at 03:00 local time. Alejandro Baena opened the scoring in the 42nd minute after Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Mussella failed to collect his shot, and the goal proved decisive.

Uruguay entered the game under pressure, having drawn 2‑2 with both Saudi Arabia and the “Green Peninsula” in earlier matches, leaving them on the brink of elimination. Coach Marcelo Bielsa faced criticism over training methods and team morale, and a red card was issued to defender Kanobio in stoppage time. The referee was Ismail ElFath of the United States.

Spain, coached by Luis de la Fuente, controlled the game after the early goal and held on to the lead, confirming their status as a tournament favorite and finishing top of Group 8. The victory eliminates Uruguay from the competition and guarantees Spain’s progression to the knockout stage.