Match Overview:
Teams: Spain vs Turkiye
Event: UEFA World Cup Qualifier, Group E
Venue: La Cartuja Stadium, Seville, Spain
Date & Time: Tuesday, 8:45 PM local (19:45 GMT)
Match Preview
Spain heads into the final Group E fixture of the UEFA World Cup qualifiers with an impeccable record of five wins from five games. If they secure a victory against Turkiye, they will guarantee their spot at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
With a comfortable three-point lead and a significant goal difference, manager Luis de la Fuente’s team is poised to earn a 13th consecutive appearance at one of sports’ most prestigious events.
On the other hand, Turkiye has a slim mathematical chance of raping the top position in the group but would need a monumental performance to pull it off. Collecting a plethora of goals against Spain will be crucial if they are to avoid settling for second place.
Current Group E Standings
- Spain: 15 points (5 matches)
- Turkiye: 12 points (5 matches)
- Georgia: 3 points (5 matches)
- Bulgaria: 0 points (5 matches)
How Spain Can Qualify
Spain’s position at the top of Group E gives them a solid advantage with 15 points. Here’s how they can confirm their qualification:
Scenario 1:
A draw or a win against Turkiye would ensure an automatic place at the World Cup, leaving them with an insurmountable lead in the group.
Scenario 2:
If they were to lose, both teams would finish with 15 points. However, Spain’s superior goal difference would still secure their top spot, making it nearly impossible for Turkiye to take first place without a stunning victory.
How Turkiye Can Qualify
Turkiye currently occupies the second spot in Group E, with 12 points—well clear of third-place Georgia. The team has a daunting challenge ahead:
To claim the top position, Turkiye would have to record an unlikely seven-goal victory over Spain. If they cannot achieve this, they will compete as runners-up in the UEFA playoffs come March.
Historically, Turkiye last reached the World Cup finals in 2002, achieving an unexpected third place in the tournament held in Japan and South Korea.
Previous Encounter
Spain faced Turkiye in the last World Cup qualifier on September 7, where they scored an emphatic 6-0 victory. Mikel Merino’s hat-trick highlighted Spain’s dominance, with Turkiye struggling defensively against their well-organized opponents.
This match remains the sole defeat for Turkiye in Group E.
Is Lamine Yamal Playing?
Unfortunately for Spain, rising star Lamine Yamal will miss the upcoming match due to a recurring groin issue. The 18-year-old recently underwent a minor procedure, with medical professionals estimating a recovery time of around 7-10 days.
Head-to-Head Record
Spain has maintained a perfect record against Turkiye in their six meetings since 2005:
- Spain: 5 wins
- Turkiye: 0 wins
- Draws: 1
Form Guide
Spain: W-W-W-W-W (Last match: UEFA World Cup qualifiers)
Turkiye: W-L-W-W-W (Last match: UEFA World Cup qualifiers)
Spain Team News
Along with Yamal, Spain also has key absences including Dani Carvajal, Pedri, and Rodri. Dean Huijsen is a doubtful inclusion due to a groin issue, while Mikel Oyarzabal, who has been in remarkable form with eight goals in his last eight international matches, is expected to lead the attack.
Turkiye Team News
Turkiye will be missing Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu due to a wrist injury sustained against Bulgaria in their last match. Isak Vural has been called up as a potential replacement. They also may not have Galatasaray defender Kaan Ayhan, who is questionable after leaving the previous match due to his injury. Additionally, Ismail Yuksek will miss the game due to suspension.
Predicted Lineups
Spain: Simon (GK); Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Merino, Zubimendi, Ruiz; Torres, Oyarzabal, Baena
Turkiye: Cakir (GK); Celik, Demiral, Bardakci, Kadioglu; Vural, Kocu; Aydin, Guler, Yildiz; Akturkoglu
Coach Comments
Luis de la Fuente (Spain):
“I don’t take our unbeaten streak for granted. Our goal is clear: to secure our spot in the FIFA World Cup.” He emphasized the importance of hard work and remaining grounded, acknowledging the difficulties his team faces.
Vincenzo Montella (Turkiye):
“While this match may not significantly alter our points, it remains important. I have faith in my players to rise to the occasion.”
World Cup 2026 Details
The upcoming FIFA World Cup will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico starting June 11, with the final match on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The tournament will feature an expanded format, welcoming 48 teams—making it the longest World Cup in history, spanning 39 days.
