World champion, Uruguay loses to Spain and is eliminated from the World Cup

Uruguay was defeated by Spain 1-0 on Friday night (26), in the last round of Group H of the World Cup. As a result, the two-time world champion was eliminated in the group stage of the World Cup.

The Uruguayan team found it difficult to create chances and ended up being punished with a goal from Baena, who took advantage of another mistake by goalkeeper Muslera to guarantee the Spanish victory. With the triumph, Spain secured the lead in the group and eliminated the South Americans.

Next phase
Classified first in Group H, Spain will face the second place in Group J in the round of 16, which will be Algeria or Austria. Uruguay, which could cross Argentina's path in the knockout stages, ends another disappointing participation in World Cups. The current world champions will face Cape Verde as their opponents.

The game
The need to score to guarantee a place in the knockout stage left the duel between Spain and Uruguay balanced and closely contested in the initial stage. Despite only depending on a draw to advance, the Spanish controlled possession of the ball and tried to dictate the pace of the match. The Uruguayans, pressured by the obligation to win, opted for a more cautious stance and quick attacks.

Opportunities, however, were scarce. The only shot that hit the target in the first half ended up defining the score. In the 41st minute, Baena received a cross and hit without much force, but Muslera failed to make the save and saw the ball die in the back of the net.

The error cost the experienced Uruguayan goalkeeper dearly. Replaced at half-time, Muslera gave way to Rochet, Internacional's goalkeeper, chosen by coach Marcelo Bielsa to play the entire second stage. Goalkeeper Muslera didn't even return to the bench.

Without the goal to seal the victory, the Spanish gave hope to the Uruguayans, who did not create many chances without a creative midfield, especially after the replacement of leader and star Fede Valverde.

In the final stretch, after the table, Fernan Torres came in free, facing Rochet. But he hit the crossbar, missing the best chance of the second half.

In the last minute, Fluminense striker Cannobio was sent off after tackling Cubarsí.

Discover the highlights of Japan, Brazil's rival in the World Cup

Source: CNN