Spain edge Uruguay to send the two-time champions home

Spain completed a perfect group campaign with a narrow but deserved 1-0 win over Uruguay at the Estadio Akron, a result that confirmed top spot in Group H and, dramatically, eliminated the two-time world champions. La Roja were patient and controlled against a Uruguay side that needed to win and pushed hard in search of the goal that would have saved them. But Spain's quality told, a single strike from Alex Baena proving decisive and bringing the curtain down on Uruguay's tournament. For a nation that lifted the trophy in 1930 and 1950, a group-stage exit is a chastening outcome.

Match summary: Baena's moment settles a tense contest

In a cagey, tactical encounter, Spain were the more composed side and carried the greater control, dictating possession and limiting Uruguay to half-chances. The decisive moment arrived through Alex Baena, whose finish proved the difference in a game otherwise short on clear openings, the goal owing something to a rare error from veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera. Uruguay grew increasingly urgent as the clock ticked down, throwing bodies forward in search of an equaliser that would have kept them alive, but Spain's defence — unbreached all group stage — stood firm. La Roja saw out the contest with the maturity of a side certain of its quality, protecting both the lead and top spot.

The end of the road for a proud footballing nation

Uruguay's exit is the headline that will resonate beyond this group. Two-time world champions and perennial knockout-round presences, La Celeste leave at the group stage after a campaign that never quite ignited — two draws and a defeat, and just three goals scored across three matches. The margins were fine, but the cumulative story was of a side that lacked a cutting edge when it mattered. For Spain, by contrast, the clean sheet and the win extend a near-flawless start, La Roja advancing with their defensive record and attacking patience both intact.

Group H settled: Spain top, Cape Verde join them in the last 32

Victory secured first place for Spain on seven points with a goal difference of plus five, the group's standout side. Cape Verde's goalless draw with Saudi Arabia earned the debutants second place on three points and a place in the knockout rounds, while Uruguay finished third on two points and bow out alongside bottom side Saudi Arabia. Spain now move into the Round of 32 as one of the form teams of the tournament, their blend of control and clinical edge making them a daunting proposition for whoever they meet next.