Spain top WC Group H eliminating Uruguay

Alex Baena's first-half goal sent Uruguay crashing out of the World Cup as Spain won 1-0 on early Saturday (Finnish time) to finish top of Group H, reported Xinhua.

Spain took the lead just before halftime at Guadalajara Stadium when Baena's shot slipped through the gloves of Fernando Muslera and rolled into the back of the net.

The result meant Spain finished the group stage with seven points, four ahead of second-placed Cabo Verde. Uruguay was third with two points.

The reigning European champion will face a yet-to-be-determined opponent in the round of 32 in Los Angeles on July 2.

A minute's silence for the victims of Venezuela's earthquake preceded kickoff before Spain quickly settled into its familiar rhythm, dominating possession and forcing Uruguay onto the back foot.

Lamine Yamal caused early problems as Spain won a corner following a misplaced back pass. Uruguay's first opportunity came from a free kick that Unai Simon spilled before his teammates cleared.

Pedri and Martin Zubimendi dictated the tempo while Uruguay defended deep and looked to release Darwin Nunez on the counterattack.

Marcelo Bielsa's side improved after the hydration break as Maximiliano Araujo drove forward with greater purpose and Rodrigo Bentancur fired narrowly over.

Baena broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute, controlling Marcos Llorente's cross before turning and firing low into the net.

Bielsa replaced Muslera with Sergio Rochet at the break and Uruguay pressed higher after the restart. Nicolas de la Cruz offered greater creativity, but Spain remained comfortable at the back.

Uruguay threatened late as Mathias Olivera forced Simon into a save at his near post before De la Cruz tested the goalkeeper with a dipping drive from distance. Ferran Torres then struck the crossbar after finding space inside the area.

Uruguay's frustrations spilled over in stoppage time when Agustin Canobbio was sent off for a high challenge on Nico Williams.