By Daniel Akinte
Spain head into their final Group H fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup looking to seal first place when they take on Uruguay at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara on Friday night.
Fresh from an impressive victory over Saudi Arabia, Luis de la Fuente’s side sit top of the group with four points and are already assured of a place in the knockout rounds. Another positive result against Uruguay would secure top spot and maintain the momentum they have built heading into the last 32.
Uruguay, meanwhile, find themselves under pressure after consecutive draws against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde. Marcelo Bielsa’s side have managed just two points from their opening matches and may need all three points to progress, depending on the outcome of the group’s other fixture. A draw could still be enough, but only if Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia also share the spoils.
READ RELATED STORY :
Cape Verde stun again as Uruguay World Cup hopes hang by a thread
World Cup 2026: Spain held to stunning 0-0 draw by Cape Verde
The clash promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the final round of group-stage matches. Spain’s exciting young stars, led by Lamine Yamal, will face a determined Uruguay side spearheaded by Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde. However, the South Americans will be without defender Ronald Araújo, who has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.
Spain have no fresh injury concerns and are expected to stick with the side that comfortably beat Saudi Arabia. Yamal is likely to retain his place in the starting lineup as he continues to build match fitness, while Rodri and Pedri are expected to control the midfield.
Uruguay know they cannot afford a cautious approach. Bielsa’s teams are renowned for their aggressive pressing and relentless intensity, meaning Spain will need to be sharp in possession and prepared for a high-tempo contest from the opening whistle.
With qualification at stake for Uruguay and top spot on the line for Spain, all the ingredients are in place for a thrilling encounter in Guadalajara.
Possible lineups
Spain (4-2-3-1): Simón; Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal.
Uruguay (4-2-3-1): Muslera; Varela, Cáceres, Olivera, Sanabria; Bentancur, Ugarte; Canobbio, Valverde, Araújo; Viñas.
Prediction: Uruguay are expected to attack from the outset in search of a crucial victory, which should create an open and entertaining game. Spain’s quality in possession and attacking depth could ultimately prove decisive.
