Marcelo Bielsa was furious in his post-match interview after Uruguay's 1-0 defeat to Spain, which eliminated them from the World Cup. The 70-year-old manager screamed at a journalist during one interview, but later took responsibility for the team's poor performance.
“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,” Bielsa said bluntly.
Ugarte Injury Worry for Manchester United
During the match, midfielder Manuel Ugarte was forced off with a knee injury. Manchester United, who are expected to sell the 25-year-old this summer, may now reconsider those plans if he faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera also had to be substituted after a mistake, with Bielsa revealing the player asked to be taken off.
Round of 32 Taking Shape
The round of 32 is now beginning to take shape, with Spain, Cape Verde, Belgium, and Egypt joining previously qualified teams. Alex Baena's goal helped Spain win Group H, while Cape Verde finished second to make history by reaching the knockout stages for the first time.
Belgium thrashed New Zealand 5-1, with a brace from Arsenal's Leandro Trossard, to top their group. Egypt secured second place after a draw with Iran, who finished third and face a tense wait to see if they will be one of the eight best third-place teams. A last-gasp goal for Iran was ruled out for offside.
England, Portugal, Paraguay, Ghana Also Through
Without even playing, England, Portugal, Paraguay, and Ghana have also advanced from the group stage, as it is no longer mathematically possible for them to be eliminated as one of the four worst third-place teams. Confirmed round of 32 matches include Paraguay vs. Germany and Cape Verde vs. Argentina.
Scotland Still Alive but Needing Miracle
Scotland remain in contention but are hanging by a thread. Steve Clarke's side need a very specific set of results, including DR Congo failing to beat Uzbekistan and Ghana defeating Croatia by three or more goals.
