Spain vs Turkey: World Cup Qualifier Live

The Stakes in Seville

Under the lights at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville, Spain faced Turkiye in a crucial UEFA World Cup 2026 qualifier on November 18, 2025. For Luis de la Fuente's La Roja, the path to qualification was straightforward: a win or even a draw would confirm their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as winners of Group E. Turkiye, on the other hand, needed a near-miracle – not just a victory, but a heavy defeat for Spain by seven or more goals to snatch top spot. With Spain boasting a vastly superior goal difference and a commanding three-point lead, Turkiye's realistic hope lay in securing a playoff spot, which was already guaranteed.

Head-to-Head History and Recent Form

Historically, Spain holds a significant edge over Turkiye. In their 12 previous encounters, Spain had won seven times, Turkiye twice, with three draws. Their most recent meeting, just two months prior in September 2025, saw Spain deliver a masterclass, crushing Turkiye 6-0. This emphatic victory set the stage for the rematch, casting a long shadow over Turkiye's hopes. Spain entered the match in imperious form, maintaining a 100% record in qualifying with wins against Georgia (4-0), Bulgaria (4-0), and Georgia again (2-0). Turkiye, while resilient with wins against Bulgaria (2-0), Georgia (4-1), and Bulgaria again (6-1), had suffered that single, damaging loss to Spain.

Lineups and Team News

De la Fuente made few changes from the side that dismantled Georgia. Key absentees like Pedri, Rodri, Dani Carvajal, and Lamine Yamal remained sidelined, but Spain's depth shone through. The predicted lineup saw Unai Simon in goal, flanked by a back four of Llorente, Cubarsi, Laporte, and Cucurella. The midfield featured Merino and Zubimenti anchoring, with Ruiz providing creativity. Attackingly, Oyarzabal, Torres, and Pino led the line. Turkiye, aiming for revenge, named their strongest available squad. Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız were key figures in attack, supported by Hakan Çalhanoğlu in midfield, behind a lone striker.

The Match Unfolds

Despite a five-minute delay, kickoff arrived with anticipation. Spain immediately looked to control possession, as expected. While the 6-0 drubbing in September was unlikely to be repeated, especially with some regulars missing, Spain's collective strength was evident early on. They dictated the tempo, probing Turkiye's defense. Turkiye, needing an improbable result, defended resolutely but struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organized Spanish side. The match settled into a pattern of Spanish pressure countered by determined Turkish resistance. Spain's superior quality in midfield and attack gradually began to tell, though the breakthrough wasn't immediate.

Prediction and Outcome

Analysts widely predicted Spain would extend their perfect qualifying record. While expecting a repeat of the September thrashing was unrealistic, Spain's depth and tactical discipline made them strong favorites. Turkiye required a monumental shift in fortune, needing to win big and hope for a catastrophic Spanish collapse. As the match progressed, Spain's control became more pronounced. They eventually broke through, taking the lead and adding a second to effectively seal their qualification. Turkiye fought hard for a consolation goal, but Spain's defense held firm. The final whistle confirmed Spain's qualification as Group E winners, while Turkiye's slim dream of topping the group faded, leaving them to focus on the playoffs.

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What's Next?

For Spain, this victory bookends a dominant qualifying campaign, securing their place at the 2026 World Cup with a match to spare. They will look to maintain momentum and perfect record in their final qualifier. For Turkiye, the focus shifts to the playoffs in March, where they will have another chance to reach the World Cup finals. The task in Seville proved too steep, but their resilience throughout qualifying earned them a second chance. The stark contrast in the teams' objectives – Spain confirming their place, Turkiye chasing a miracle – defined this compelling encounter.