Spain sealed top spot in Group H at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a narrow 1-0 win over Uruguay in Los Angeles, a result that confirmed La Celeste’s elimination from the tournament after Alex Baena struck late in the first half.
This is Spain’s first victory against Uruguay at the FIFA World Cup, the prior two games ended in a draw.
The decisive moment arrived as Spain’s dominance in possession finally told, with Baena controlling Marcos Llorente’s low cross before firing at goal. Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera failed to deal with the effort, allowing the ball to slip into the net in a costly error that proved decisive in a tight contest.
The veteran was substituted at half-time for Sergio Rochet as Marcelo Bielsa’s side attempted a reset, but Uruguay struggled to break down Spain’s controlled passing game. Ferran Torres came closest to doubling the lead, rattling the crossbar in the closing stages, while Agustín Canobbio’s late red card compounded a frustrating night for La Celeste.
Spain will face the Group J runners-up in Los Angeles on July 2 in the Round of 32, while Uruguay bow out after a disappointing group-stage exit.
