SPAIN CRUISE TO 3-0 VICTORY OVER BULGARIA IN WORLD CUP 2026 QUALIFIER

September 4, 2025

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Agency Report

Spain began their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in emphatic style with a 3-0 win over Bulgaria on Thursday at the Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia.

First-half goals from Mikel Oyarzabal, Marc Cucurella, and Mikel Merino sealed a comfortable victory for the reigning European champions, who are strong favourites to top Group E which also includes Turkey and Georgia and qualify directly for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi provided the assist for Oyarzabal’s opener inside five minutes, before Chelsea defender Cucurella smashed home Spain’s second. Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal then delivered a pinpoint corner for Merino to head in Spain’s third, putting the game beyond Bulgaria before halftime.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente welcomed back Manchester City’s Rodri and Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal, both returning from lengthy knee injuries, while also handing a debut to Como winger Jesus Rodriguez. Despite Bulgaria hitting the post early on, Spain dominated throughout, with Merino also striking the crossbar after the break.

The win marked Spain’s first meeting with Bulgaria in over two decades, their last clash coming at the 1998 World Cup. La Roja will now face Turkey, who beat Georgia 3-2, in their next qualifier on Sunday.