Spain secured top spot in Group H and sent Uruguay out of the FIFA World Cup after a narrow 1-0 victory, with a costly error from veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera proving decisive.
Alex Baena scored the only goal of the contest in the 42nd minute, as his low strike slipped through Muslera’s hands despite the goalkeeper getting both gloves to the ball.
The defeat left Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay with just two points from three matches, sealing their exit from the tournament and marking a second consecutive group-stage elimination.
Uruguay had enjoyed their strongest spell of the match before falling behind, but were left frustrated after Manuel Ugarte went down injured in the build-up to the goal.
Play continued, and the midfielder was later taken off on a stretcher.
Bielsa reacted at half-time by replacing Muslera with Sergio Rochet following what appeared to be the goalkeeper’s third error leading to a goal in as many matches.
However, the change did little to alter the outcome as Spain maintained control after the break.
Uruguay struggled to break down a disciplined Spanish side, with goalkeeper Unai Simón largely untroubled.
Darwin Núñez missed two clear chances in the first half, while Ferran Torres struck the crossbar late on as Spain threatened a second goal.
The South Americans’ frustration boiled over in stoppage time when Agustín Canobbio was sent off for a dangerous challenge on Pau Cubarsí, capping a disappointing night for Uruguay.
Spain, who had already been close to qualification before kick-off, finished as Group H winners and advanced to the Round of 32, where they will face the runners-up from Group J.
