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Fernando Muslera has taken full responsibility for Uruguay’s World Cup elimination after asking to be substituted at half-time during their match against Spain. Head coach Marcelo Bielsa confirmed that the veteran goalkeeper made the decision himself following his crucial error that led to Alex Baena’s decisive goal in the 1-0 defeat.

Muslera asked to be taken off at the break after his first-half mistake proved costly. Bielsa explained that the goalkeeper’s substitution was initiated by the player rather than the coaching staff. Goalkeeper changes mid-match are unusual, but the Uruguay manager made it clear that it was Muslera’s own decision. The 40-year-old struggled in the opening period, failing to stop Baena’s effort, which ultimately sealed Spain’s victory. Uruguay were unable to respond after the interval, confirming their exit from the 2026 World Cup.

After the match, Bielsa clarified that the half-time change was not his call, but Muslera’s. “I didn’t make it [the decision of substituting the GK], that’s a decision Muslera himself made,” Bielsa explained.

Muslera later accepted full accountability for his performance, expressing regret to both his teammates and the Uruguayan fans. “I’ve never been one to hide, but to face the music,” he said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo. “This is the most direct way to speak to the Uruguayan people. I never imagined I would suffer so much with this sport, especially after all the effort and preparation I put in.

“I told the lads in the locker room at the end of the game, when they were calmer, ‘Today it’s my turn… I haven’t had a good World Cup’. I apologised to them and to all Uruguayans, although it’s too late now.”

Reflecting on the emotional impact of the error, Muslera spoke about the highs and lows of being a goalkeeper. The 40-year-old admitted that the position can swiftly shift from triumph to heartbreak. “Now it’s time to be with my closest friends and family, gather my strength, and move forward, because that’s what this sport is about, and this position (goalkeeper) too,” he added. “Sometimes it gives you everything, and at other times it takes it away. I accept what I have to face, and there’s no other choice but to keep going.”

Uruguay’s early exit could mark the end of the international road for several senior players, with Muslera’s final major tournament ending in disappointment. Attention now turns to rebuilding the squad after their premature World Cup elimination. Alongside this, questions remain about Bielsa’s own future following the team’s failure to progress.