Spain Cruise Past Bulgaria 3-0 in Opening 2026 World Cup Qualifier

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

The reigning Euro 2024 champions sealed the win with three first-half goals from Mikel Oyarzabal, Marc Cucurella, and Mikel Merino.

Coach Luis de la Fuente welcomed back Rodri Hernandez and Dani Carvajal, who both made substitute appearances after recovering from long-term knee injuries.

Spain, winners of the 2010 World Cup, are tipped to top Group E — which also includes Turkey and Georgia — to secure direct qualification for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

This match marked the first meeting between Spain and Bulgaria in over 20 years, the last being at the 1998 World Cup when La Roja triumphed 6-1.

Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi set up Oyarzabal for the opener inside five minutes, before Cucurella powered in his first international goal. Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal provided the assist for Merino’s header to make it three before the break.

Despite their dominance, Spain could not add to the scoreline in the second half, with Merino hitting the crossbar. Yamal impressed with his pace and creativity on the right flank, while debutant Jesus Rodriguez earned his first cap in the closing minutes.

“We are incredibly demanding — the players most of all — they were disappointed with the second half,” said De la Fuente, while Cucurella added: “It landed for me, I controlled it and then I hit it. I’m very happy to score my first for Spain.”

Looking ahead, De la Fuente warned his team about tougher challenges: “Turkey will be a higher-level game and more demanding… we have to look to be better every day.”

Spain face Turkey, who defeated Georgia 3-2 earlier, in their next qualifier on Sunday.