Everything is to play for as Group H enters its thrilling climax, with title favourites Spain hoping to avoid an early confidence blow in their pursuit of World Cup glory.
La Roja take on Marcelo Bielsa’s faltering Uruguay side, who are on the verge of an early exit if they fail to beat group leaders Spain tonight after being held to underwhelming draws against Saudi Arabia and debutants Cape Verde in their opening two fixtures.
Cape Verde have been the surprise package of this tournament, having also ground out a remarkable goalless stalemate with Spain in their opener – if they better Uruguay’s result, they will progress as Group H runners-up and their World Cup fairytale will continue into the knockouts.
The tiny African island take on Saudi Arabia, who are also still in contention despite their thrashing at the hands of Spain last time out – and with both games kicking off simultaneously, Group H could deliver the most dramatic 90 minutes of the World Cup so far.
Follow all the latest updates as Group H reaches its climax below:
What do Uruguay need to qualify?
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?
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!
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.
Mike Jones26 June 2026 18:57