Spain will face Turkey in their second 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier following an impressive 3-0 away victory in Bulgaria, with goals from Mikel Zubimendi, Marc Cucurella, and Mikel Merino all in the first half[1]. Spain’s squad, led by Luis de la Fuente, are reigning European champions and currently at the top of Group E alongside Turkey, who won 3-2 against Georgia in their opener despite a late scare[1].
The crucial fixture will be played at the Konya Büyükşehir Belediye Stadyumu, and is being regarded as Spain’s toughest test in the group, especially given the “incredible atmosphere” anticipated in Konya, with Real Madrid’s Arda Güler—now a key figure for Turkey—warning Spain not to underestimate their hosts[1]. Güler emphasized, “It will be a difficult match, but it won’t be easy for Spain…We’ll do our best against Spain and it will be a very good match.”[1] This game has generated special interest as Spain have lost only twice to Turkey in their history and claimed three straight wins in head-to-head matchups since 2009, including a 3-0 win at UEFA Euro 2016[1].
Spain head into the game unbeaten in 26 competitive matches in regulation and are strong favorites to qualify for their 13th successive World Cup[2]. Meanwhile, Turkey, buoyed by their recent Nations League success and determined to qualify for just their third World Cup, see this home fixture as potentially decisive[2]. In their most recent games, Spain looked dominant in Sofia, while Turkey’s attack shined but their defense appeared vulnerable, as highlighted by Georgia’s late goals[2].
Lamine Yamal, despite previous injury concerns, is expected to be fit and could start for Spain, having trained without problems prior to the match[4]. The match will take place on Sunday night, September 7, in Konya, with both sides eager to set the tone in Group E[5].