Two-time FIFA World Cup winners Uruguay have suffered one of the biggest disappointments of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, exiting the tournament in the group stage after failing to register a single victory. Following the team's early elimination, head coach Marcelo Bielsa announced his resignation, taking full responsibility for Uruguay's disappointing campaign. (Reuters)

Uruguay finished third in Group H, recording draws against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde before losing 1-0 to Spain, leaving them outside the qualification spots for the knockout stage. (Reuters)

Uruguay Eliminated After Winless Campaign

Expectations were high for Uruguay entering the tournament, with a squad featuring experienced internationals and several players competing at Europe's top clubs.

However, the South American side struggled throughout the group stage.

Their results included:

• 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia
• 2-2 draw against Cape Verde
• 0-1 defeat to Spain

The two draws and one loss left Uruguay with only two points, ending their World Cup journey much earlier than expected. It also marked the second consecutive World Cup in which Uruguay failed to progress beyond the group stage. (Reuters)

Marcelo Bielsa Announces His Departure

Following the elimination, 70-year-old head coach Marcelo Bielsa confirmed that he was stepping down from his role.

Speaking after the team's exit, Bielsa described the moment as deeply painful and admitted that he had not achieved the objectives set when he accepted the position.

He accepted full responsibility for Uruguay's performance, saying he had no excuses for the team's results and believed he had failed to make the best use of the talented squad available to him. (Cadena SER)

Coach Takes Responsibility for Poor Results

During his post-match press conference, Bielsa acknowledged that the disappointing campaign was entirely his responsibility.

He stated that despite having a group of high-quality players, Uruguay could not translate their potential into positive results on the field.

The experienced Argentine coach also reflected on his tenure, suggesting that he had not left the positive legacy he had hoped to build during his time with the national team. (ESPN)

Internal Challenges During the Tournament

Uruguay's World Cup campaign was also overshadowed by reports of tension within the squad.

According to multiple reports, disagreements emerged over training intensity, tactical decisions, and player management during the tournament. Senior players reportedly expressed concerns before the decisive group-stage match against Spain, although Bielsa later emphasized that he accepted responsibility for the team's overall performance. (Reuters)

Spain and Cape Verde Advance

Uruguay's defeat to Spain ensured that the European champions topped Group H with seven points.

Meanwhile, Cape Verde secured one of the qualification spots, producing one of the biggest surprises of the tournament by progressing to the knockout stage in their first FIFA World Cup appearance. Uruguay and Saudi Arabia were eliminated from the competition. (Reuters)

A Disappointing End for a Historic Football Nation

Uruguay remains one of international football's most successful nations, having won the FIFA World Cup in 1930 and 1950. However, the 2026 campaign will be remembered as a major setback after the team failed to win a single group-stage match despite entering the tournament with high expectations.

With Marcelo Bielsa's departure, the Uruguayan Football Association is now expected to begin the search for a new head coach as the national team turns its attention to rebuilding ahead of future international competitions. (Reuters)