Spain wins World Cup group, beating Uruguay 1-0 as Muslera’s error sends 2-time champion home

Uruguay is out of the World Cup after another costly error by Fernando Muslera led to defeat by Spain, with head coach Marcelo Bielsa substituting the legendary goalkeeper at half-time.

European champions Spain were already practically guaranteed a place in the last 32 before kick-off, but Alex Baena's strike late in the first half meant they topped Group H and will face the runners-up of Group J.

Uruguay's miserable morning was completed when midfielder Agustin Canobbio was sent off in stoppage time for a high challenge on Pau Cubarsi.

Bielsa's side needed a positive result to secure progression, but defeat meant they suffered a second successive World Cup group stage exit with two points from three games.

Spain took the lead in the 42nd minute after weathering a period of Uruguay pressure, when Baena swiveled and beat Muslera with a low shot despite the 40-year-old goalkeeper getting two hands on the ball.

Dembele sprinkled magic before knockout stage, Senegal raised their hopes with convincing victory

Uruguay were unhappy that their opponents did not put the ball out of play in the build-up to the goal when Manuel Ugarte went down following what appeared an innocuous challenge.

The Manchester United midfielder received treatment before leaving the pitch on a stretcher.

After making his third error leading to a goal in as many games, Muslera, who was making his 137th appearance, was replaced at half-time with Sergio Rochet.

The change made little difference as Spain took control of the second half but could not find a second goal.

Out-of-the-loop Elanga: Sweden qualified, he mourned their elimination

Uruguay made a late push to save their tournament but, in truth, never seriously tested Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simon.

Former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, restored to the starting XI, missed two presentable opportunities in two minutes shortly after the first-half hydration break.

No Real Madrid, no Inter, but Como – Nico Paz stays by the lake

Bielsa's side were in the ascendancy until Muslera's error, but it was not until the final 10 minutes that they began to test Simon.

Spain's substitute Ferran Torres hit the crossbar late on as Spain were able to see out their second win of the tournament, the first time they have achieved that at a World Cup since winning it in 2010.

WORLD CUP - GROUP STAGE (ROUND 3)

Group H

Saturday

Cape Verde - Saudi Arabia 0-0 (0-0)

Uruguay - Spain 0-1 (0-1)

/Baena 42/