Nico Williams has condemned Uruguay’s Nicolas de la Cruz for what he called a completely unnecessary challenge that left the Spain winger injured and likely ruled out of their World Cup last-32 match.
Williams sustained a muscle problem after the tackle during Spain’s 1-0 victory that eliminated Uruguay, describing it on social media as one of the worst days of his life. De la Cruz was booked in stoppage time for the incident, and moments later team-mate Agustin Canobbio received a straight red card for a lunge on Pau Cubarsi.
The 23-year-old, whose season with Athletic Club has already been disrupted by injuries, had only made short substitute appearances in Spain’s three group games. He wrote that he had suffered another setback after a play he felt stemmed from an opponent’s frustration and could easily have been avoided, adding that it would not derail his resolve.
According to the Spanish Football Federation, Williams has a moderate injury and still has a chance to return later in the tournament.