Uruguay goalkeeper Muslera refuses to return after halftime in 1-0 loss to Spain at World Cup 2026

Uruguay head coach Marcelo Bielsa revealed that goalkeeper Fernando Muslera declined to return to the field after the halftime break in the 1‑0 loss to Spain.

According to Bielsa, Muslera requested to be substituted at half‑time during La Celeste’s defeat on Friday.

The 40‑year‑old, who was playing his 19th match for Uruguay, made a mistake in the first half that allowed Spain’s only goal.

In the 42nd minute, Muslera mishandled a shot from Spain’s Alex Baena, letting the ball slip past his hands into the net.

After the first half, Muslera was replaced by Sergio Rochet in goal.

He became the first Uruguayan goalkeeper in history to be substituted during a match.

Following the game, Bielsa clarified that Muslera’s substitution was not his own decision, noting that the goalkeeper had asked to be taken off.

He stated (via X/@FabrizioRomano), “Fernando Muslera asked me to be subbed off at half time.”

The 2026 campaign has been difficult for the 40‑year‑old, as he made an error in every group‑stage match that led to an opposition goal. Muslera also became the only goalkeeper in World Cup history since 1966 to commit three or more errors in a single tournament.

During the first half, La Roja managed only one shot on target, which resulted in a goal. Against Spain, Muslera recorded no saves and had a passing accuracy of 54 % (7/13).

It is highly likely that the Uruguayan goalkeeper has made his final appearance for the national team.