Baena Goal Gives Spain Victory Over Uruguay to Top Group H
Alex Baena's first-half strike secured a 1-0 win for Spain over Uruguay at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, sending Spain through as Group H winners.
S pain topped Group H with a 1-0 victory over Uruguay at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara on June 26. Alex Baena scored the only goal of the match in the 42nd minute to seal three points for the European champions.
The match was evenly contested in the opening exchanges, but Baena's well-taken goal shortly before half-time gave Spain control. Uruguay pushed for an equaliser in the second half but could not find a way through a disciplined Spanish defence.
Spain finish the group stage with seven points from three games, heading into the knockout rounds in strong form. Uruguay, despite a resilient performance, are eliminated from the tournament.
Cape Verde's simultaneous draw with Saudi Arabia confirmed their progress in second place. Uruguay end their World Cup campaign in third place in Group H.