2026 World Cup, Uruguay: The Embarrassment Goes Beyond Elimination; Bielsa and Canobbio’s Actions Spark Debate
Being eliminated in the group stage with just two points would have been enough to spark disappointment in Uruguay, but the loss to Spain—marked by Muslera’s spectacular blunder on Baena’s shot late in the first half—has sparked an even more heated debate: the issue of conduct during the frantic final moments of the match.
The first incident involved Agustín Canobbio, who was sent off in the 95th minute for a hammering tackle on Cubarsí. The Uruguayan reacted with protests that were as immediate as they were dramatic, even attempting to engage in a physical confrontation with referee Elfath before being dragged away by his teammates. The Fluminense player then continued his protest on the sideline with shouts and dramatic gestures: outrage erupted on social media, with comments calling it “unacceptable behavior.”
Marcelo Bielsa also added fuel to the fire. In the post-match press conference, even before answering questions, “El Loco” lived up to his nickname by venting his frustration with a scream in front of the camera that left the reporter and crew on the sidelines stunned, later claiming that his team did not deserve to be eliminated. This behavior has divided the public: some justify it as a result of the tension of the moment, while others accuse him of losing control even further by failing to take responsibility for his actions.
Finally, the Muslera incident. His substitution at the start of the second half, following his error on Baena’s goal, fueled suspicions of a technical penalty. Bielsa, however, firmly denied this, explaining that it was the goalkeeper himself—a former player for Lazio, among other clubs—who asked to be substituted, after which Rochet entered the game. The result is an overall picture that goes beyond mere elimination: Uruguay leaves the World Cup amid controversy, frayed nerves, and an image tarnished by actions that have sparked more debate than the actual play on the field.
