Manuel Ugarte suffered a knee injury that saw him stretchered off during Uruguay's 1-0 defeat to Spain at the World Cup. The Manchester United midfielder's injury could impact his planned summer transfer, as the club had been expected to offload him.
Bielsa's Furious Interview After Elimination
Marcelo Bielsa was incensed after Uruguay's elimination, launching a tirade at a journalist during a post-match interview. The 70-year-old coach accepted responsibility for the team's disappointing campaign, bluntly stating: "Journalists and fans of Uruguayan football legitimately want to pin the blame on me. I'm the person responsible and I have to accept it."
Fernando Muslera was also substituted, with Bielsa revealing the experienced goalkeeper had requested to be withdrawn.
Iran's Last-Gasp Winner Ruled Out
Iran thought they had secured a spot in the round of 32, but their last-gasp winner against Egypt was ruled out for offside. Spain, Cape Verde, Belgium, and Egypt have all advanced, with Spain topping Group H after Alex Baena's goal.
Belgium Thrash New Zealand; Other Results
Leandro Trossard scored a brace as Belgium thrashed New Zealand 5-1 to finish top of their group, with Egypt in second. Without kicking a ball, England, Portugal, Paraguay, and Ghana also progressed, as it is mathematically impossible for them to finish among the four worst third-placed teams.
Round of 32 Fixtures Confirmed
Further round of 32 fixtures have been confirmed, including Paraguay vs Germany and Cape Verde vs Argentina. Scotland remain on a knife-edge, needing a specific set of results: DR Congo failing to beat Uzbekistan and Ghana defeating Croatia by three or more goals.
