Spain close the half ahead: a crucial goal from Baena

In the final Group H match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Spain closed the first half 1-0 up against Uruguay. At the Estadio Akron in Zapopan, the European champions, with a clear edge in possession, went into the break ahead through Álex Baena's goal in the 42nd minute. Spain, wanting to finish top of the group with a win, kept control of the game as expected.

The only goal of the match came via an unfortunate moment for Uruguay. On Marcos Llorente's cross into the box, Álex Baena took a touch then turned to shoot. Although experienced keeper Fernando Muslera got two hands to the ball, he could not stop it from creeping slowly into the net. The keeper's serious error put Spain into a crucial lead.

The statistics clearly showed Spain's dominance. The European champions reached 74 percent possession and also led in expected goals at 0.33-0.10. Uruguay dropped deep in defense to try to break up Spain's attacks; but they struggled against the ball circulation of Rodri and Pedri in midfield. Marcelo Bielsa's side created a few half chances late in the first half but could not find a goal.

Another setback for Uruguay was an injury. Manuel Ugarte went off injured in the 45th minute, replaced by Nicolás de la Cruz. With Spain, in a match refereed by the United States' Ismail Elfath, expected to maintain their superiority in the second half, Uruguay, who need a win to advance, will have to step up their pressure.

Image: Al Jazeera