XIs out for the decider: Uruguay face Spain

In the final Group H match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Uruguay and Spain face off at the Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Mexico, and the starting XIs for both teams have been announced. Spain, who have all but secured the round of 32, can finish top of the group with a win — and likely with a draw too — while Uruguay, who drew their first two matches, need a win to qualify automatically.

For Spain, head coach Luis de la Fuente fields a strong squad in a 4-3-3. Young star Lamine Yamal, who scored on his return against Saudi Arabia, plays on the right wing, while Pedri and Rodri orchestrate the play. Mikel Oyarzabal, in effective form in recent internationals, starts up front; Nico Williams will pose a threat on the left. Aymeric Laporte and young Pau Cubarsí are at the heart of defense, with Unai Simón in goal.

For Uruguay, head coach Marcelo Bielsa sets up in a 4-1-4-1. With Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Ronald Araújo out injured, experienced keeper Fernando Muslera is in goal. Federico Valverde is the team's engine in midfield, while Darwin Núñez starts as the center-forward up top. Núñez, who was benched against Cabo Verde, returning to the XI stands out as Uruguay's most important attacking asset.

The meaning of the match differs for each side. Spain want to finish top of the group to face an easier opponent on paper in the round of 32, while Uruguay, who have had a tough group, are on the field to stay in the tournament. Spain having never lost to Uruguay since a first meeting in 1950 is one of the biggest hurdles, statistically, in front of the South American side, who are the home team here.

Starting XIs
Uruguay (4-1-4-1): Muslera; Varela, Cáceres, Olivera, Canobbio; Bentancur; Araujo, Valverde, Ugarte, Sanabria; Núñez
Spain (4-3-3): Simón; Llorente, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Pedri, Rodri, Baena; Lamine Yamal, Oyarzabal, Merino

Image: Yahoo Sports