Pino, who entered the match in the 66th minute, stayed on until the end despite the injury because Spain had already made all five substitutions. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Spain’s place in the FIFA World Cup last 32 came at a heavy cost on Friday after winger Yeremy Pino suffered what appears to be a tournament-ending shoulder injury, while Nico Williams picked up another muscle problem during a 1-0 win over Uruguay.

Pino, who plays for Crystal Palace, injured his shoulder late in the match and was forced to play through the closing minutes after Spain had exhausted its three substitution windows.

Williams, eased back into action after an injury-hit season with Athletic Bilbao, came on with 15 minutes remaining but finished the game in visible discomfort, raising fresh concerns over his fitness.

The double setback further depletes Spain’s options on the flanks. Lamine Yamal is still being carefully managed following a hamstring injury, having not completed a full 90 minutes in more than two months, while Liverpool’s new signing Victor Munoz is yet to feature at the tournament after suffering a setback in his recovery from a muscle injury.

“Nico was experiencing some slight discomfort. It could be a strain or just fatigue. We’ll have to wait until tomorrow to know for sure,” Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said.

“However, what really concerns me is Yeremy’s injury. It looks serious and there is a very strong possibility he will miss the rest of the tournament.”

Spain topped Group H thanks to Alex Baena’s first-half strike, which came after a goalkeeping error by Uruguay captain Fernando Muslera. The European champion will face either Austria or Algeria in the round of 32 in Los Angeles.

Despite securing qualification, De la Fuente admitted Spain must improve in the knockout phase after being drawn into a bruising contest.

Uruguay’s physical approach culminated in Agustin Canobbio being sent off in stoppage time for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi.

“I am proud of my players in a match that pushed us to the limit physically and mentally,” De la Fuente said.

“We know games like this can happen. The most important thing is that we responded well, even if the performance wasn’t particularly dazzling.

“You can’t always play with the brilliance you want. We maintained a very high level of concentration, responsibility and composure, and we avoided reacting to the many provocations that could have caused serious problems.”

Published on Jun 27, 2026