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Uruguay exits World Cup 2026 as Bielsa resigns and AUF cancels charter flight
Uruguay were eliminated in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1‑0 loss to Spain, leaving the team with only two points from three matches. Coach Marcelo Bielsa announced his resignation in a post‑match interview, stating, "What I leave to Uruguayan football is nothing," and cited the poor results in qualifiers and the Copa América.
Goalkeeper Fernando Muslera was substituted at halftime following the error that led to Spain’s winning goal. The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) subsequently cancelled the private charter that had been arranged for the squad’s return, requiring the 26 players to travel home individually on commercial flights.
The Spanish side, which topped Group H, also dealt with injuries sustained in the same match: winger Nico Williams suffered a right‑adductor muscle strain after a challenge by Flamengo’s De la Cruz, and midfielder Yeremy Pino was diagnosed with a clavicle issue. Both injuries threaten Spain’s squad depth ahead of the knockout rounds.