Spain and Uruguay clash in a pivotal Group H finale, with La Roja needing a win to secure top spot and Uruguay desperate for their first victory to advance. A tactical battle awaits at the World Cup.
Summary
Group H reaches its climax as Spain and Uruguay meet in a winner-takes-all encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Spain currently sit top with four points from two matches, having thrashed Saudi Arabia 4-0 before being held to a goalless draw by Cape Verde Islands. Uruguay, meanwhile, have drawn both their games — 2-2 against Cape Verde and 1-1 versus Saudi Arabia — leaving them second with two points. A victory for either side would guarantee progress, while a draw could see Uruguay through if other results favour them, but both teams will be aiming for three points to avoid any complications.
This match pits two footballing powerhouses with contrasting styles: Spain's possession-based 'tiki-taka' against Uruguay's gritty, counter-attacking approach. With knockout places on the line, expect a tense, high-stakes affair at a yet-to-be-confirmed venue.
Team News & Form
Uruguay have been solid but unspectacular in their opening two games. Marcelo Bielsa's side showed resilience to come from behind twice against Cape Verde, with Federico Valverde and Darwin Núñez scoring. Against Saudi Arabia, they took an early lead through Núñez but were pegged back in the second half. Defensive lapses have been a concern, but the return of centre-back Ronald Araújo from injury bolsters their backline. Midfielder Manuel Ugarte provides steel, while Facundo Pellistri offers width.
Spain started with a dominant 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia, with Álvaro Morata scoring twice and Lamine Yamal impressing. However, they failed to break down a stubborn Cape Verde defence in a 0-0 draw, highlighting a lack of cutting edge against deep blocks. Luis de la Fuente may rotate his frontline, with Joselu and Ferran Torres pushing for starts. Pedri and Gavi control midfield, while Rodri's presence is crucial. Defensively, Spain have been solid, conceding zero goals so far.
Key Players
Darwin Núñez (Uruguay): The Liverpool striker has been Uruguay's main threat, scoring both of their goals in the tournament. His pace, power, and movement will test Spain's high defensive line. Núñez's ability to stretch play and finish clinically makes him the focal point of Uruguay's attack.
Pedri (Spain): The Barcelona midfielder orchestrates Spain's tempo with his vision and passing range. His ability to find pockets of space and link play will be vital against Uruguay's compact midfield. Pedri's creativity could unlock a stubborn Uruguayan defence.
Predicted Lineups
Uruguay (4-3-3): Rochet; Nández, Araújo, Giménez, Viña; Valverde, Ugarte, De la Cruz; Pellistri, Núñez, Rodríguez.
Spain (4-3-3): Simón; Carvajal, Laporte, Le Normand, Alba; Rodri, Pedri, Gavi; Yamal, Morata, Williams.
Key Battles
Uruguay's midfield vs Spain's possession: Bielsa will likely instruct Valverde and Ugarte to press aggressively and disrupt Spain's rhythm. Winning the midfield battle is crucial for Uruguay to launch counters.
Núñez vs Laporte: The aerial duel between Núñez and Aymeric Laporte could decide the game. Laporte's experience and positioning will be tested by Núñez's physicality and movement.
Head-to-Head
Spain and Uruguay have met 10 times historically, with Spain winning five, Uruguay three, and two draws. Their most recent encounter was a 2022 friendly which Spain won 2-1. In World Cup competition, they last faced in the 2010 semi-finals, where Spain won 1-0 en route to their first title.
Score Prediction
Spain's superior quality and defensive solidity give them the edge, but Uruguay's desperation and counter-attacking threat make them dangerous. Expect a tight contest with few chances. Prediction: Uruguay 0-1 Spain.
Where to Watch
Fans can watch the match live on FIFA's official broadcast partners. For full coverage, including live standings, visit our Uruguay team page and Spain team page.
