Spain secured their place in the World Cup knockout stage with a 1-0 victory over Uruguay in Guadalajara, but the win came at a significant cost. Álex Baena's first-half goal proved decisive, yet injury concerns overshadowed the result as coach Luis de la Fuente revealed both substitute wingers face uncertain futures.

Yéremy Pino suffered a suspected collarbone injury after falling during the match, leaving the stadium in a sling and potentially missing the remainder of the tournament. Nico Williams, recently recovered from injury, experienced muscular discomfort that could be a strain or fatigue. Both players were introduced in the second half as Spain managed to hold their lead.

The physical nature of Uruguay's approach under Marcelo Bielsa led to Agustín Canobbio's late red card, but De la Fuente refused to criticize his counterpart despite admitting Spain felt uncomfortable throughout. The coach praised Pino's heroic effort to finish the match while clearly distressed about the injury situation.

Spain advance as Group H winners but lack the fluidity that carried them to Euro 2024 glory, raising questions about their ability to compete against stronger opposition in the knockout rounds.