Uruguay’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign ended in disappointment after they crashed out of the group stage without a single win.
The two time world champions lost 1-0 to Spain on Saturday. They had already drawn against Saudi Arabia and World Cup newcomers Cape Verde in Group H.
Uruguay became the only South American team to miss out on the Round of 32. The expanded 48 team World Cup allows 32 nations to reach the knockout stage, making their early exit an even bigger shock.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side came into the tournament with high hopes. The squad included stars like Federico Valverde, Rodrigo Bentancur, Manuel Ugarte and Darwin Nunez. Uruguay had also impressed during World Cup qualifying and finished third at the 2024 Copa America.
But they failed to live up to expectations.
Uruguay struggled throughout the group stage. They controlled possession at times but could not create enough chances or score the goals they needed.
Their poor run also continued. The team has not won a match since beating Uzbekistan in a friendly in October. This is also the second straight World Cup where Uruguay failed to reach the knockout stage.
Questions have also grown over Bielsa’s future.
Before the tournament, the Argentine coach hinted that his time with Uruguay could end after the World Cup. In May, he said his “job ends with the World Cup.”
There have also been reports of problems inside the squad.
Veteran striker Luis Suarez had already questioned parts of Bielsa’s management. He raised concerns about the intensity of training and the direction of the team.
Local media also reported that senior players Federico Valverde, Rodrigo Bentancur, Manuel Ugarte and goalkeeper Sergio Rochet met Bielsa before the Spain match. They reportedly spoke about the heavy training sessions and the team’s tactical approach.
The reports said the meeting became tense. The players believed the workload had left them tired during matches.
After a winless World Cup and growing pressure inside the camp, Bielsa’s future as Uruguay coach now remains uncertain.
