Uruguay coach Diego Ormaechea blamed a lack of preparation time for his side's inability to mount a damage limitation exercise against England. England ran in 17 tries for a 111-13 victory in Brisbane as they romped to their highest-ever World Cup score.
And Uruguay, who had just four days to prepare after their victory over Georgia on Tuesday, appeared to run out of steam after the break.
"It was too little time against such a strong team," said coach Diego Ormaechea.
"From what I saw tonight, England would have to be a good chance to win the Cup."
Uruguay's victory over Georgia meant they escaped taking the wooden spoon in Pool C.
And they did get the satisfaction of seeing prop Pablo Lemoine crash over for a try against one of the World Cup favourites.
Manager Daniel Herrera Vidiella said he was proud of the efforts of a country with only 300 players.
"It was the fight of the lion and the mouse," he said. "It is impossible to overestimate the difference between the teams.
"It was a Formula One car against a bicycle but we still put in a big effort."
MMIX
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England heroes profiled