Spain took a 1-0 lead into half-time against Uruguay in their critical Group H World Cup clash at Estadio Guadalajara after Álex Baena struck in the 42nd minute. Marcos Llorente supplied the assist as Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled possession and dictated the pace of the match.
Spain entered the game knowing victory would secure automatic progress to the round of 32. They approached the contest with authority and kept Uruguay pinned inside their own half for long spells.
The numbers reflected Spain’s grip on the match. They held 72 per cent possession and completed 78 accurate passes from 86 attempts during the first half. Uruguay managed only 35 completed passes and struggled to build sustained attacks.
Rodri and Pedri controlled the midfield and gave Spain rhythm in possession. Spain moved the ball quickly through central areas before stretching the play out wide, forcing Uruguay to spend much of the half defending deep.
Uruguay created little in attack. Rodrigo Bentancur produced their clearest effort but lifted his strike over the bar. Darwin Nunez and Federico Valverde struggled to break through Spain’s organised defensive shape.
The breakthrough arrived three minutes before the interval. Llorente drove forward and picked out Baena, who guided his effort into the corner beyond Fernando Muslera.
Spain sit top of Group H with four points after a 4-0 win against Saudi Arabia and a goalless draw with Cape Verde. They now hold a strong position as they head into the second half.
