The only goal of the game came from a costly mistake
The match in Guadalajara was short on quality and drama, with the outcome decided by a single incident in the 42nd minute. Marcos Llorente whipped in a cross from the right into the box, where Alex Baena controlled the ball and struck it on the swivel. Uruguay''s veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera got both hands to the shot but couldn''t keep it out — his third costly error in three matches at this tournament.
Bielsa changes his keeper, but the damage is done
Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa pulled Muslera at halftime, bringing on Sergio Rochet in his place, and substituted captain Federico Valverde before the hour mark in an attempt to spark his side''s attack. Spain, however, kept control of the game throughout, limiting Uruguay to almost no real chances. The match ended in tense fashion, with Agustin Canobbio sent off in stoppage time for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi.
Spain top the group, Uruguay are out
The 1-0 win gave Spain top spot in Group H and a round of 32 meeting with the runner-up from the Austria-Algeria group. For Uruguay, the tournament ends at the group stage for the second straight World Cup — they finished third with two points, not enough to advance even as one of the best third-placed teams. Cape Verde took the other qualifying spot from Group H.