Spain secured top spot in Group H with a 1-0 win over Uruguay, but coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed injury worries for wingers Nico Williams and Yéremy Pino.
Summary
Spain's 1-0 victory over Uruguay ensured they finished top of Group H at the World Cup, but the win came at a potential cost. According to ESPN, coach Luis de la Fuente has confirmed injury concerns for wingers Nico Williams and Yéremy Pino, with the latter reportedly facing the possibility of missing the rest of the tournament.
The Details
Spain edged Uruguay 1-0 in their final group match to top the group with seven points. However, the match took a toll on two of their key attacking players. De la Fuente revealed after the game that both Williams and Pino picked up injuries during the contest. While the severity of Williams' issue remains unclear, Pino's injury is said to be more serious, with the Spain camp reportedly fearing he could be ruled out for the remainder of the World Cup.
Pino, a 21-year-old Villarreal winger, has been a regular contributor off the bench for Spain in the tournament. Williams, the Athletic Bilbao winger, has also featured as a substitute. Their potential absence would be a blow to Spain's depth as they head into the knockout stages.
What It Means
Spain's progression as group winners sets up a round-of-16 tie against the third-placed team from Group A, B, C, or D. However, the injury concerns could force de la Fuente to adjust his attacking options. With Pino potentially out, Spain may have to rely more heavily on other wingers such as Lamine Yamal or Ferran Torres. The coach will hope that Williams' injury is minor and that he can be available for the next match.
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Source: Reported by ESPN. Summary compiled by NinetyMins.
