GUADALAJARA, 27 June (H.S.): Spain secured top spot in Group H of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating Uruguay 1-0 in their final group-stage match early Saturday, booking their place in the knockout stage. The defeat brought Marcelo Bielsa's Uruguay campaign to an end at the group stage, while Cape Verde also advanced to the Round of 32.

Alex Baena scored the only goal of the match in the 42nd minute of the first half. Collecting a cross from Marcos Llorente, Baena controlled the ball before firing a shot that slipped through the hands of veteran Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera and into the net.

Spain had an early opportunity to take the lead, but Mikel Oyarzabal's effort was blocked by the Uruguayan defence. Uruguay also created several chances, with Darwin Núñez and Rodrigo Bentancur threatening the Spanish goal, but both failed to convert their opportunities.

At the start of the second half, Uruguay replaced Muslera with Sergio Rochet in goal. However, the change failed to alter the course of the match as Uruguay struggled to find an equaliser.

Spain continued to create chances to extend their advantage through Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres. One of Spain's best opportunities struck the crossbar, denying them a second goal.

Uruguay's hopes suffered another setback in stoppage time when Agustín Canobbio was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Pau Cubarsí, leaving his side to finish the match with 10 men.

With the victory, Spain finished at the top of Group H and will face the runners-up of Group J in the Round of 32 on July 2. Austria currently occupy second place in Group J.

Meanwhile, Cape Verde secured a historic place in the knockout stage for the first time after their goalless draw against Saudi Arabia was enough to see them finish second in the group.

Brief Score:

Spain 1-0 Uruguay

Goal: Alex Baena (42')

Red Card: Agustín Canobbio (Uruguay, stoppage time)

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar