Former World Champions, Uruguay, were too good at the Comos Arena, where they recorded a convincing 3-0 win over hosts, Russia in the final group A match on Monday.
It was Uruguay’s second win over Russia, who had only lost one of their previous eight meetings.
Luis Suarez struck a wonderful free kick to put La Celeste 1-0 up in the 10th minute, before Diego Laxalt’s 23rd minute fierce shot doubled their advantage after taking a wicked deflection off Denis Cheryshev.
Russia were reduced to 10-men 13minutes later, as Igor Smolnikov received his marching orders after picking up two yellow cards in the space of eight minutes.
Edinson Cavani sealed victory for the South Americans when he added a late third to ensure a comfortable afternoon and all three points.
The win means Uruguay advance to the round of 16 as group winners, winning three in three games, while Russia, who finish second on six points, also are through despite that heavy defeat.
Both teams now turn focus to group B, where they are likely to meet the duo of Portugal and Spain, the top two teams in that group and play later today, with Iran also still contention for a place.
In the other group game, it was a disappointing end to their campaign, as African representatives, Egypt, crashed out without winning a point.
The Pharaohs were beaten 2-1 by Saudi Arabia, who netted two late goals in either half to earn their only win of the campaign.
Mohamed Salah gave Egypt the lead, before Essam El-Hadary became the fourth goalkeeper to save a penalty on his debut when he saved Falhad Al-Muwallad’s penalty four minutes from the break.
El-Hadary also set the record of becoming the oldest player to ever play in the world cup, at the age of 45.
However, in added time of the first half, Saudi Arabia finally drew level through Salman Al-Faraj, who converted from the spot following a VAR decision.
The second half was that of half chances, but just when both sides look set to share the spoils, the Saudis stole all three points, this time, Salem Al-Dawsari snatching the win with the last kick of the match.
Nevertheless, the win means nothing but the Saudis salvaging some pride, as they were already eliminated.
