Egypt survived late drama to hold on to a 1-1 draw against Iran in Group G to advance as runner-up in Group G.
A late strike from Shojae Khalilzadeh sparked wild scenes of celebration in the 93rd minute in Seattle.
But VAR scuppered Iran’s hopes, ruling the goal out for offside to hand the Pharaohs a reprieve. The point could still be enough for Iran to advance as one of the eight best third-place teams.
While Egypt have booked a last 32 tie with Australia and must worry about Mohamed Salah’s left hamstring, which was heavily strapped and iced after the former Liverpool star was forced off injured.
Mahmoud Saber had given Egypt the lead, only for Ramin Rezaeian to hit back for Iran, who remain unbeaten at this World Cup.
Follow all the latest reaction after a thrilling Group G climax:
Egypt v Iran live
- Egypt hold on to 1-1 draw with Iran in chaotic Group G finale
- Belgium beat New Zealand 5-1 to top group
- Pharaohs settle for second and face Australia in last 32 in Dallas on 3 July
- Iran must wait and rely on one favour to remain in top eight third-place teams to advance
- Saber gave Egypt early lead; Rezaeian hit back for Iran in first half
- Khalilzadeh goal ruled out in stoppage time by VAR for offside
- Report: Iran’s knockout status hangs by a thread after most dramatic – and agonising – World Cup moment so far
Egypt star Mohamed Salah issues injury update as World Cup hangs in balance
08:08 , Jamie Braidwood
Mohamed Salah’s hopes of playing in his first World Cup knockout match are in the balance after the Egypt captain suffered a knee injury during his side’s 1-1 draw with Iran.
Salah was surprisingly taken off on 57 minutes and the former Liverpool star was seen with ice wrapped around his leg as he watched on from the bench.
Salah scored his 68th international goal in Egypt's first World Cup win, a 3-1 victory against New Zealand. The 34-year-old has assisted two other goals at the tournament.
But his hopes of playing in Egypt’s last-32 clash against Australia next Friday are in doubt as coach Hossam Hassan said Salah will undergo assessment.
Egypt star Mohamed Salah issues injury update as World Cup hangs in balance
Trossard and Garcia react to Belgium win and topping group
08:00 , Jack Rathborn
“I feel very good, I think we’re growing into the tournament, myself as well,” Trossard said. “We’re really happy to come first and go to the next round.”
Manager Rudi Garcia added: “I think he’s the best player of the Belgian selection since the beginning of the World Cup. Before the match, I asked him to be more decisive in his play. To be more challenging. Leandro was really able to score a lot at Arsenal, so he’s perfectly capable, and that is what he did tonight.”
Rainbow flags dot Iran and Egypt's match as Seattle celebrates Pride during the World Cup
07:35 , Jack Rathborn
Rainbow flags fluttered among the sea of Iranian and Egyptian banners at Seattle’s World Cup stadium Friday, as teams from two of the most repressive countries for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people took to the field.
It was just a coincidence that the city’s “Pride Match” ended up as a high-stakes matchup between Iran and Egypt — with advancement from Group G still up in the air — and it came with plenty of pushback from both countries. But Seattle officials and its soccer community say the distinctive pairing was an opportunity to showcase the city’s inclusivity as well as the common ground that can be found at the World Cup.
Some milled about the stadium with Pride Match scarves, while others had painted their faces with rainbows or clutched free flags handed out by a human rights organization. A man heading to his seat toted a large sign that spelled out PRIDE as an acronym: “Proud, Respectful, Inclusive, Diverse, Egyptian.” AP.
Salah asked to come off after injury in Egypt draw
07:10 , Jack Rathborn
Hossam Hassan has noted that Mohamed Salah asked to come off during the 1-1 draw with Iran: “It’s Salah who asked to come off after feeling discomfort in his hamstring.”
Iran’s knockout status hangs by a thread after most dramatic – and agonising – World Cup moment so far
06:44 , Kieran Jackson in Seattle
For an Iran squad whose simple presence at these World Cup Finals was a precariously run thing for so many months, the continuation of their unprecedented journey in North America is hanging, like so many others, by an excruciating 24-hour thread. But only after the most enthralling – and agonising – seven minutes of stoppage time you will ever see.
For West Ham in May, see Iran in June: glorious goalscoring moments at the death taken away in the cruellest of ways. It seemed time stood still in the Egypt penalty area as Iran defender Shojae Khalilzadeh swept the ball home before sliding on his knees towards his euphoric teammates pitchside, in what was the moment of the 2026 World Cup so far. And yet, heartbreakingly, the Iran defender did not cater for the two most unpopular words in football. “After review,” said Polish referee Szymon Marciniak. VAR had its say. We know what comes next.
Iran’s knockout status hangs by a thread after most dramatic World Cup moment so far
Iran’s knockout status hangs by a thread after most dramatic – and agonising – World Cup moment so far
06:44 , Kieran Jackson in Seattle
For an Iran squad whose simple presence at these World Cup Finals was a precariously run thing for so many months, the continuation of their unprecedented journey in North America is hanging, like so many others, by an excruciating 24-hour thread. But only after the most enthralling – and agonising – seven minutes of stoppage time you will ever see.
For West Ham in May, see Iran in June: glorious goalscoring moments at the death taken away in the cruellest of ways. It seemed time stood still in the Egypt penalty area as Iran defender Shojae Khalilzadeh swept the ball home before sliding on his knees towards his euphoric teammates pitchside, in what was the moment of the 2026 World Cup so far. And yet, heartbreakingly, the Iran defender did not cater for the two most unpopular words in football. “After review,” said Polish referee Szymon Marciniak. VAR had its say. We know what comes next.
Iran’s knockout status hangs by a thread after most dramatic World Cup moment so far
FT: Egypt 1-2 Iran
06:22 , Jack Rathborn
FT: Egypt 1-2 Iran
06:09 , Jack Rathborn
It’s full-time in Seattle, chaos at the end, but Iran are forced to settle for a point, as they remain unbeaten and should still advance as a third-place team.
Egypt are fortunate and move forward to a last 32 tie with Australia.
While Belgium’s 5-1 win over New Zealand sees them top the group.
GOAL RULED OUT! Egypt 1-2 Iran
06:03 , Jack Rathborn
90+3 mins: It was ruled out by VAR, offside and heartbreak for Iran, with Khalilzadeh’s wild celebration in vain.
Madness in Seattle.
GOAL! Egypt 1-2 Iran (Khalilzadeh)
05:58 , Jack Rathborn
90+3 mins: It’s bedlam in Seattle, Iran have won it! Khalilzadeh sweeps home, Egypt a shambles.
Iran made a mess of it too, Ghorbani should have scored initially, before the loose ball dropped to Khalilzadeh after Shobeir spilt it.
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:54 , Jack Rathborn
89 mins: CHAOS!
Taremi rises high at the corner, he gets there first and heads onto the bar!
A foul is given on Shobeir, but VAR would have reversed that and given a goal if Taremi had finished, very fortunate for Egypt.
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:49 , Jack Rathborn
84 mins: Scrap that last post, Belgium are 4-1 up, Lukaku has his goal, now the Red Devils are top again, this time on +3, Egypt on +2...
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:48 , Jack Rathborn
83 mins: Egypt back top! They’ve scored more goals, and New Zealand have pulled a crucial goal back against Belgium, trailing 3-1, but it enables the Pharaohs to go back up with more goals on +2 GD.
Lasheen pinches the ball and then unleashes a strike, but it’s dragged wide of the near post.
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:46 , Jack Rathborn
78 mins: Egypt are dangerous on the break with Marmoush using his pace.
Iran pushing for that winner now an taking risks. Rezaeian was too strong for Ashour there and looking to be direct in transition.
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:34 , Jack Rathborn
70 mins: Marmoush with a blast from the edge of the area and he looks especially dangerous.
It’s slashed wide after a deflection, but Iran are giving him too much area.
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:31 , Jack Rathborn
65 mins: Kevin De Bruyne has Belgium 3-0 up in the other game against New Zealand, it’s been shown up on the big screen, crunch time!
Egypt know they have to win now or suffer a tougher path.
Marmoush has been lively and without Salah, the City forward will need to bring the cutting edge.
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:23 , Jack Rathborn
Zizo is on for Mohamed Salah in the 57th minute, a surprise.
Perhaps saving Salah for the knockout stage? No, there’s ice and strapping around his left thigh and hamstring. A concern for Egypt fans, there.
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:19 , Jack Rathborn
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:18 , Jack Rathborn
52 mins: Trezeguet! So close for Egypt, Salah with a brilliant run down the right, he holds it up and times the cutback perfectly.
Yasser Ibrahim with a well-timed block.
Better from Egypt though.
Egypt 1-1 Iran
05:11 , Jack Rathborn
We’re back underway in Seattle...
The ramifications of this contest will be felt beyond Group G.
Scotland fans will be watching on, without an Egypt win, they will be on the brink and require a perfect set of results, with no more wiggle room.
HALF-TIME: Egypt 1-1 Iran
04:53 , Kieran Jackson
It’s one apiece at half-time. After that helter-skelter start, things calmed down as the half progressed and - as has been the case right from the off in this group - it really is all to play for.
In the other game, Belgium lead New Zealand 1-0 - meaning Kevin De Bruyne’s side will finish second in the group as it stands.
Egypt currently first; Iran currently third on three points with a 0 GD. Would that be enough? It’d be very tight.
Egypt v Iran - early goals
04:24 , Kieran Jackson
GOAL! Egypt 1-1 Iran (Rezaeian 14')
04:19 , Kieran Jackson
It doesn’t matter - Iran are level!
Shobeier saves again really well down low to his left but Iran’s Ramin Rezaeian is first to the loose goal and fires into the roof of the net from a tight angle!
PENALTY MISSED! Egypt 1-0 Iran
04:15 , Kieran Jackson
What drama here.
Taremi is fouled in the box after nipping to a loose ball first but his penalty is well-saved by Egypt keeper Mostafa Shobeir!
GOAL! Egypt 1-0 Iran
04:09 , Kieran Jackson
That didn’t take long!
Egypt take the lead early on here! Mohamed Salah’s tame effort is parried wide by the goalkeeper and midfielder Mahmoud Saber strikes home with his left-foot!
Quite how Saber’s shot found its way through both the keeper and the defender on the line I don’t know... but Egypt are ahead!
KICK-OFF: Egypt v Iran
04:03 , Kieran Jackson
Mohamed Salah’s Egypt gets us underway then.
Egypt need a point to guarantee progression; Iran need a win.
Faint booing for the Iran national anthem
03:57 , Kieran Jackson in Seattle
I wasn’t at Iran’s two games in LA, but the jeering for the national anthem at SoFi seemed louder than just then.
A smattering of boos at the start, before complete respect for the anthem.
It’s go-time.
Fever pitch atmosphere in Seattle
03:46 , Kieran Jackson in Seattle
It has been some atmosphere on the walk across the waterfront to Lumen Field this afternoon.
Thousands of Egyptian and Iranian fans, as well as protestors against the Iranian regime. I’ve also seen an anti-Israel protest and an anti-Trump banner, as well as Palestine and Lebanon flags.
Truth be told, the one flag I have not seen a lot of - given it is technically the locally organised rainbow game - is the rainbow flag.
Still, on the pitch, it’s a big moment for both teams. Iran need to win to guarantee qualification.
England qualify for World Cup knockout stages with potential opponents revealed
03:45 , Mike Jones
England have qualified for the World Cup 2026 knockout stages after results in other groups went their way on Friday night.
Thomas Tuchel’s side are top of Group L on four points, following an impressive opening win against Croatia and then a 0-0 stalemate against Ghana on Tuesday night.
England qualify for World Cup knockout stages with potential opponents revealed
Postecoglou on Cape Verde's success
03:41 , Mike Jones
The former Tottneham boss said on ITV: “It's just a great story for what the World Cup is all about. We often talk about how football touches every part of the globe and this is what it can do. Get on the main stage and they finished second in their group.
“I think they'd love to play Argentina, it just adds to their story. Playing against the reigning champions. What a great story it's been.”
A poor record
03:36 , Mike Jones
Marcelo Bielsa has failed to progress from the group stage in two of his three World Cup campaigns: with Argentina in 2002 and Uruguay in 2026.
His only successful group-stage campaign came with Chile in 2010.
Fernando Muslera hauled off at half-time by Uruguay boss after howler against Spain
03:30 , Mike Jones
Fernando Muslera was hauled off at half-time by Uruguay boss Marcelo Bielsa to end a humiliating World Cup 2026 campaign during their 1-0 defeat to Spain.
The Estudiantes shot-stopper has endured a nightmare campaign for La Celeste, with his mishandling of Alex Baena’s shot leading to Spain’s opener.
Fernando Muslera hauled off at half-time by Uruguay boss after howler against Spain
Cape Verde to take on champions
03:25 , Mike Jones
Cape Verde’s reward for finishing second and making it out of Group H is a match against the reigning world champions Argentina.
That clash will take place in Miami where Leo Messi plays his club football.
What a game for the Cape Verde players to have as their first ever knockout match. They couldn’t beat the world champions could they?
Who will Spain play in the last-32?
03:20 , Mike Jones
As things stand, Spain will be playing Austria in the round of 32 at the Los Angeles Stadium.
Austria still need to finish off their group stage so that could change.
Cape Verde go through!
03:15 , Mike Jones
Cape Verde’s fairytale goes on as they qualify for the next round having finished second in the group.
They are unbeaten with three draws from their group stage games. Spain couldn’t beat them and neither could Uruguay or Saudi Arabia.
Spain top the Group H table
03:12 , Mike Jones
Two wins and a draw for Spain means they win the group with seven points.
They still have plenty to learn and develop but the first job is done and the Spanish can improve through the knockouts.
Full-time! Uruguay 0-1 Spain
03:01 , Mike Jones
90+7 mins: There’s the final whistle.
Uruguay threw themselves at Spain but couldn’t find a way through. It’s a frustrating end to the tournament for them as they’ll be heading home.
Spain finish top of Group H and secure another win. They’re heading into the last-32 with a renewed sense of momentum.
Red card! Uruguay 0-1 Spain
03:00 , Mike Jones
90+4 mins: It’s all kicking off now!
Uruguay’s frustration boils over completely as they know they’re heading out of the competition.
Canobbio flies into the wild tackle and caltters into Pau Cubarsi.
The referee has no choice but to pull out the red.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:55 , Mike Jones
90 mins: Five minutes of added time to play at the end of this match.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:52 , Mike Jones
87 mins: Three minutes of the 90 to play. Uruguay still have time as there will be a few minutes added on at the end.
But is it enough time to get them back into the match?
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:49 , Mike Jones
84 mins: The set piece is swung into the box and cleared away by Nico Williams.
The ball comes out to Bentancur who fires a cross back into the middle but it sails over everyone’s heads.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:46 , Mike Jones
81 mins: A second Spain goal would kill this match off but, for now at least, there is a bit of resistance from Uruguay.
They win a corner and will have the chance to pressure the Spanish goal.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:43 , Mike Jones
78 mins: Time is running out for Uruguay and Marcelo Bielsa knows it.
He looks furious on the sidelines as he’s issuing instructions to his men.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:40 , Mike Jones
75 mins: So far so good for Spain, and for Scotland.
15 minutes to play in Mexico to deterine how Group H ends.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:33 , Mike Jones
69 mins: Hydration break number two.
It’s still goalless between Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde. As things stand Cape Verde will be going through to the knockout rounds!
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:29 , Mike Jones
66 mins: Yamal finally gets a one-on-one with the Uruguay left-back and sweeps past him.
He drives into the box and slips a pass to Dani Olmo who then blasts a shot over the crossbar!
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:26 , Mike Jones
63 mins: Spanish changes.
Pedri and Mikel Morino are replaced by Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:25 , Mike Jones
60 mins: A loose pass from Rodri gives the ball away and Uruguay manage to get an early cross into the box only for Unai Simon to claim it.
Half an hour to play.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:24 , Mike Jones
57 mins: Marcelo Bielsa makes a bold call and takes off Fede Valverde.
The Real Madrid man is the most prominent member of Uruguay’s squad and he’s just not been in the game.
Federico Vinas replaces him.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:18 , Mike Jones
54 mins: Ouch! Pedri spins away from Canobbio and looks to advance but the Uruguay midfielder lunges at him.
Canobbio lands and scrapes down Pedri’s shin and it’s a hurtful one for the Spaniard.
He’s okay though and will continue.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:14 , Mike Jones
51 mins: Here are some thoughts from Gary Neville on Fernando Muslera’s first half mistake.
Neville said: “You talk about a mistake, it actually transforms the entirety of the group, the entirety of this half and the Uruguay spirit.
“They have a big job now to get back in the game.
“It was a bad moment for the goalkeeper. I actually feel sorry for him.”
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:12 , Mike Jones
48 mins: Uruguay’s aim has become clear, they must score or else they’re out of the World Cup.
Other than the goalkeeper switch there hasn’t been any other replacements from Marcelo Bielsa.
Second half! Uruguay 0-1 Spain
02:10 , Mike Jones
Uruguay’s goalkeeper has been subbed off the pitch at half-time!
Fernando Muslera has been replaced by Sergio Rochet for the second half as Uruguay try to keep themselves in the World Cup.
As things stand
02:05 , Mike Jones
As things stand in Group H, Spain will win the group and Cape Verde are going through to the last-32 in second place.
Uruguay will finish third but they won’t have enough points to go through.
Costly mistakes
02:02 , Mike Jones
Uruguay's Fernando Muslera has become the first goalkeeper on record since 1966 to commit three errors leading to goals in a single World Cup tournament.
A tournament to forget.
Half-time! Uruguay 0-1 Spain
01:56 , Mike Jones
45+8 mins: Spain head into the break with a slender lead but one that, on the face of the first half, could be crucial.
A mistake from Uruguay’s goalkeeper could have condemned them to an early exit but Marcelo Bielsa’s men have 45 minutes to turn things around.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
01:48 , Mike Jones
45+3 mins: There’s eight minutes of added time to play in the first half.
That Spanish goal is good news for Scotland too as Uruguay sit third in Group H but only have two points meaning they remain below Scotland in the third place table.
Uruguay 0-1 Spain
01:47 , Mike Jones
45 mins: Even worse for Uruguay, Manuel Ugarte needs to go off.
The Man Utd midfielder jarred his right knee trying to recover the ball during the move that led to Baena’s goal.
He collided with one of his teammates and was stretchered off the pitch.
Nicolas de la Cruz replaces him.
GOAL! Uruguay 0-1 Spain (Alex Baena, 42')
01:44 , Mike Jones
Massive!
Pedri feeds the ball into the box and finds Yamal. He is tackled but the ball comes loose and is fired back into the middle.
Alex Baena is first to it and turns a first time effort towards goal. Muslera should stop it but he fumbles the ball and it dribbles over the line.
Spain lead!
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:38 , Mike Jones
36 mins: Marcelo Bielsa is sat on the side of the pitch and yelling instructions out to his team. He knows Uruguay have built a bit of momentum in this game and wants them to capitalise on it.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:36 , Mike Jones
33 mins: There’s not a lot of penetration from Spain. It’s a similar vibe to England’s performance against Ghana.
Plenty of possession but not much end product and then hit on the break by Uruguay flying forward.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:32 , Mike Jones
30 mins: Nunez flicks the ball on from a throw in and drives up towards the box.
The ball comes out wide to the right and is curled low into the middle by Araujo but Nunez can’t arrive in time to get on the end of it.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:29 , Mike Jones
27 mins: Close!
Valverde bullies his way onto the ball and dances into the right side of the box. He squares it across to Nunez who looks like he tries to backheel it into the net.
He misses the ball and Spain are left to clear their lines again.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:27 , Mike Jones
24 mins: Hydration break time.
Oh the joys.
Still goalless between Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. As things stand, Uruguay stay second and Cape Verde third.
Both of them will have a better goal difference than Scotland as well which would pretty much put the nail in the coffin of their World Cup campaign.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:22 , Mike Jones
21 mins: Close!
Baena swings the corner over to the far side of the box where it’s won by Pau Cubarsi.
He nods the ball down towards the six yard box and Muslera scoops it up.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:21 , Mike Jones
18 mins: That’s a nice move from Spain. They work it quickly across the pitch after a throw in on the right.
It comes to Baena who slips a first time pass into the box for Oyarzabal.
Oyarzabal’s run is well timed but he’s forced wide and the ball is poked out for a corner.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:17 , Mike Jones
15 mins: Yamal twists his way down the right side of the pitch and wins a corner.
Baena swings it into the penalty area and onto the head of Rodri but he can’t guide the ball towards goal.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:15 , Mike Jones
12 mins: Oh wow! Baena makes a poor pass after Spain recover the ball inside their own half.
He gives it away to Valverde who looks for a one-two with Nunez to get himself into the area but the return pass is intercepted and Spain clear.
This is better from Uruguay.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:11 , Mike Jones
9 mins: Uruguay haven’t quite gotten themselves into the contest yet and are finding it tricky to play through Spain, especially in midfield.
Spain are enjoying plenty of the ball but the South American side are employing a decent press.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:08 , Mike Jones
6 mins: Uruguay win a free kick over on the left side of the pitch and swing in a cross.
The ball is headed straight up from the initial delivery and Unai Simon comes to claim it.
Instead, he drops and fumbles it causing the ball to come loose inside the six yard box.
Luckily for Spain the nearest player is a defender who hooks it clear before any damage is done.
Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:04 , Mike Jones
3 mins: A poor pass back from Bentancur feeds the ball into the path of Lamine Yamal. He skips out of a tackle and slides the ball over to Oyarzabal.
The attacker shoots from the left side of the box and wins the first corner of the game.
Kick off! Uruguay 0-0 Spain
01:02 , Mike Jones
Spain get the ball rolling in Mexico and send it back to Unai Simon.
He’s put under pressure by a pressing Darwin Nunez and hooks the ball out of play on the right side of the pitch.
Uruguay v Spain
Saturday 27 June 2026 00:54 , Mike Jones
The players make their way out onto the pitch at the Estadio Guadalajara.
Spain still have some work to do and must ensure they win tonight in order to top Group H.
Uruguay will be out if they don’t at least draw with Spain.
In the other game of Group H, Cape Verde are attempting to reach the knockout rounds when they face Saudi Arabia.
How will it all play out? We’re about to find out...
Why imperfect perfectionist Marcelo Bielsa and Uruguay were doomed to fail at World Cup
Saturday 27 June 2026 00:48 , Richard Jolly
Marcelo Bielsa’s World Cup started with him staring at the floor. Now he is staring at an early exit. “I’m not a model,” said the Uruguay manager after his official Fifa photo showed him refusing to look at the camera.
It has not been a model World Cup for him, either: draws with Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde leave Uruguay requiring at least a point against Spain to avert an ignominiously early exit, and with it the end of Bielsa’s reign.
Why imperfect perfectionist Bielsa and Uruguay were doomed to fail at World Cup
Will Spain top the group?
Saturday 27 June 2026 00:36 , Mike Jones
Spain won their final group stage match at every World Cup between 1986 and 2014.
However, La Roja failed to do so in each of the last two editions, drawing 2-2 with Morocco in 2018 before losing 2-1 to Japan in 2022.
Which way will tonight’s match go?
Lamine Yamal scores first World Cup goal as Spain run rampant against Saudi Arabia
Saturday 27 June 2026 00:30 , Flo Clifford
World Cup favourites Spain underlined their credentials with a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Atlanta, spearheaded by starlet Lamine Yamal.
The European champions arrived in the United States among the major contenders to lift the trophy, but those predictions had come under feverish scrutiny after being held 0-0 by the minnows of Cape Verde.
Lamine Yamal scores first World Cup goal as Spain run rampant against Saudi Arabia
Uruguay vs Spain
Saturday 27 June 2026 00:24 , Mike Jones
Uruguay and Spain will meet in the World Cup for the third time on Saturday, with their last encounter on the big stage coming more than 30 years ago.
Another draw
Saturday 27 June 2026 00:18 , Mike Jones
The only other contest between the nations came in the final round of the 1950 World Cup, where they played out a 2-2 draw in São Paulo.
The last World Cup meeting
Saturday 27 June 2026 00:12 , Mike Jones
The most recent meeting between the two teams ended in a goalless draw in the group stage of the 1990 World Cup in Udine, Italy.
Will we see a repeat of that result tonight?
Uruguay v Spain line-ups
Saturday 27 June 2026 00:02 , Mike Jones
Uruguay XI: Muslera; Caceres, Varela, Olivera; Ugarte, Bentancur, Valverde, Canobbio, Araujo, Sanabria; Nunez
Spain XI: Simon; Llorente, Laporte, Cubarsi, Cucurella; Merino, Baena, Rodri, Pedri; Oyarzabal, Yamal
Inside the politicisation of the first-ever World Cup pride match
Saturday 27 June 2026 00:00 , Kieran Jackson
When the initial 2026 World Cup schedule was released two years ago, the date of Seattle’s final group-stage contest fashioned an unmissable opportunity. The “Emerald City”, positioned with its exquisite downtown skyline off the Pacific coast in Washington state, is famous for its spectacular Pride celebrations at the end of June. It coincides with the 1969 Stonewall Riots, seen as the catalyst for the liberation of gay people in the United States more than 55 years ago.
For Jen Barnes, founder and CEO of Rough & Tumble – a first-of-its-kind sports bar which promotes gender equity and inclusivity in sports viewing and fandom – Friday is a chance to parade the LGBTQ+ community in perfect harmony with the world’s most popular sport and its greatest show.
‘Queer people are everywhere’: Inside the politicisation of the World Cup pride match
Pre-match thoughts from Bielsa
Friday 26 June 2026 23:50 , Mike Jones
"Now we have to play Spain with the necessity and obligation of winning," Marcelo Bielsa said of Uruguay’s predicament.
He added, "[It was] an opportunity for the team to improve the impression they are making against a great opponent."
Uruguay on brink of early exit
Friday 26 June 2026 23:40 , Mike Jones
Only a positive result against Spain in this clash will stop Uruguay from a disappointing early exit.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side must avoid defeat at the very with only a win guaranteeing them a place in the next round.
A draw would leave them on three points with a goal difference of 0. That would put them in the top eight of third place finishers and see them progress but they have work to do against the European champions.
Belgium have wasted a golden generation – but there is one last World Cup hope
Friday 26 June 2026 23:30 , Richard Jolly
If Belgium spent years pondering the question of what came after the golden generation, there was a certain logic to the answer: the next generation. Their World Cup has come to the backdrop a needless controversy about Jeremy Doku’s decision to leave the camp for the birth of his son, Praise.
Rather less praise has been forthcoming for the Red Devils; criticism is likelier to follow should they tumble out of a second consecutive World Cup in the group stage.
Belgium have wasted a golden generation – but there is one last World Cup hope
Spain aiming for final
Friday 26 June 2026 23:20 , Mike Jones
De la Fuente also outlined Spain’s ultimate for this World Cup.
He said: "We need to produce our best version. Every knockout round becomes more difficult.
“We want to reach the final and continue to develop, and the opponent will be fiercer and stronger each time."
Minimal changes for Spain
Friday 26 June 2026 23:10 , Mike Jones
"The performance we delivered in the last match does not call for us to make changes, but I am very pleased with what the players who came on as substitutes produced and with what I see in training,” explained Luis de la Fuente when asked about possible changes for tonight’s game.
“Whoever plays will put in a good performance. We will carry out a final review this evening, but I already know who will play."
The World Cup results Scotland need to qualify for knockout stages
Friday 26 June 2026 23:00 , Mike Jones
Scotland‘s World Cup hopes are on the brink after finishing third in Group C following a 3-0 defeat to Brazil - and their fate is out of their hands.
Steve Clarke’s side defeated Haiti in their opening match before a slim 1-0 loss to Morocco. A dispiriting defeat to Brazil left them with just three points and a goal difference of -3, as well as an agonising wait to determine if they’ll make it into the knockout rounds.
The six World Cup results Scotland need to qualify for knockout stages
How to watch Uruguay vs Spain
Friday 26 June 2026 22:50 , Mike Jones
Tonight’s Group H encounter between Uruguay and Spain will be broadcast on ITV1 with coverage beginning at 12.15am.
Kick off is at 1am and the match is being played at Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico.
The strange Mauricio Pochettino outburst that is cause for concern for USA
Friday 26 June 2026 22:40 , Kieran Jackson
In this case, it's best to start at the end of 15 strange and slightly disorienting minutes in the Los Angeles Stadium underbelly. Clearly perplexed and irritated by the tone of some questions in his customary post-match press conference, after the USA’s last-gasp but ultimately inconsequential defeat against Turkey, head coach Mauricio Pochettino had to get something off his chest. Again.
A matter of moments after voicing his bemusement that nobody had offered his team a token gesture of recognition for finishing top of a group involving Paraguay, Australia and Turkey, the overstimulated Argentinean went into overdrive once more.
The Pochettino outburst that is cause for concern for USA before World Cup knockouts
Spain's early team news
Friday 26 June 2026 22:30 , Mike Jones
Spain could once again be missing Victor Munoz, but Lamine Yamal is again set to be included in the starting XI.
There are no further injury issues but De le Fuente may decide to make some changes with Nico Williams and Dani Olmo pushing for starts.
Uruguay's early team news
Friday 26 June 2026 22:20 , Mike Jones
Uruguay will be without Ronald Araujo and Giorgian de Arrascaeta who are both sidelined by calf injuries.
Otherwise, there are no fresh fitness concerns for the South American team.
Breathtaking Ecuador become World Cup dark horses and expose Germany’s biggest problem
Friday 26 June 2026 22:10 , Jack Rathborn
Ecuador battled, scrapped and clawed their way to this famous World Cup comeback victory over Germany. A deserved 2-1 win to advance to the knockout stage for the second-ever time and ensure redemption for maligned coach Sebastian Beccacece.
They finish third in Group E, in another blow to Scotland’s hopes of becoming one of the eight third-placed teams to advance, with their manager clambering into the stands like he had won Wimbledon in what promises to be a wild New York party.
Breathtaking Ecuador become World Cup dark horses to expose Germany’s biggest problem
De la Fuente on Bielsa
Friday 26 June 2026 22:00 , Mike Jones
“For me, I’ve been a big admirer of Marcelo Bielsa. I’ve followed his career. I went to watch the trainings of his teams. He is a really innovative trainer. I admire him deeply,” said the Spain boss.
“I’ve already had an opportunity to spend time with him in Madrid. We spoke about football and about other things as well. I’m an admirer of his. It’s incredible for me to have him as my opponent. It’s a huge honour and joy.”
Pre-match thoughts from Luis de la Fuente
Friday 26 June 2026 21:50 , Mike Jones
Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente spoke about tonight’s match and what he is expecting.
He said: “Because of the experience that we had against Cape Verde, we were able to succeed against Saudi Arabia, but Uruguay is a different opponent because they have long history and tradition.
“They will demand the best of us. A lot is at stake for us and for them. We will try to prevail.”
The 2026 World Cup has a problem: celebrity-spotting
Friday 26 June 2026 21:40 , Richard Jolly
Brad Pitt was there. Leonardo DiCaprio too. So were Paris Hilton and Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell and Colin Farrell. Not to mention Scottie Pippen, Lance Bass, Gabrielle Union and Keegan-Michael Key. Although, for those of us who are not entirely sure who they are, perhaps they should go unmentioned.
Maybe a United States game in Los Angeles was always likelier to attract the rich and famous, and they turned out, and then turned up on big screens and televisions. Because part of the problem with this World Cup has been the focus on the famous. Occasionally the football gets in the way of the celeb-spotting.
The 2026 World Cup has a problem: celebrity-spotting
What do Saudi Arabia need to qualify?
Friday 26 June 2026 21:30 , Mike Jones
They have to win. No other result will be good enough. Four points, even with a negative goal difference, should be fine if Uruguay beat Spain and they end up in third place.
What do Cape Verde need to qualify?
Friday 26 June 2026 21:20 , Mike Jones
A win against Saudi Arabia seals it, while a point is also likely to be good enough. Defeat, and they’re out.
What do Uruguay need to qualify?
Friday 26 June 2026 21:10 , Mike Jones
Uruguay need to avoid defeat. A point would put Uruguay on three points, with a level goal difference following three draws, a total that is likely going to be good enough to advance as one of the best third-place teams even if one of Cape Verde or Saudi Arabia win to go above them.
They would finish second with a draw if there is also not a winner in the game between Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. Uruguay would be out with a defeat, as two points is not enough and at least one of Cape Verde or Saudi Arabia will surpass the three-point mark.
What does Spain need to qualify from Group H?
Friday 26 June 2026 21:00 , Mike Jones
All four teams in Group H can still advance to the knockout stages of the World Cup as Spain play Uruguay and Cape Verde look to make history against Saudi Arabia.
Tournament favourites Spain clicked into gear as the return Lamine Yamal sparked an impressive 4-0 destruction of Saudi Arabia, with La Roja sitting top of the group on four points.
Spain will top Group H with a win against Uruguay, or with a draw - unless Cape Verde beat Saudi Arabia by four goals. Spain could yet lose out on top spot to Uruguay if they lose to Marcelo Bielsa’s side, while they may even slip down to third place if they lose and Cape Verde win by any score. However, Spain would be certain to go through as one of the best ranked third-place sides. If Spain lose but Saudi Arabia beat Cape Verde, Spain will be second due to head-to-head.
Good evening!
Friday 26 June 2026 18:57 , Mike Jones
Welcome to The Independent’s coverage of tonight’s Group H conclusion as Spain take on Uruguay with Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia also going toe-to-toe.
The results of these final group games will have ramifications for Scotland’s position in the tournament and Spain will want to show why they are the favourites to win the title again.
We’ll have all the updates, team news and line-ups throughout the night so stick with us as we build up to kick off at 1am.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
