Spain completed an unbeaten march to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing qualification with a 2-2 draw against a spirited Turkey side in their final Group E fixture in Seville on Tuesday. The result ensured Luis de la Fuente’s Euro 2024 champions topped their group, while Turkey finished second and headed to the play-offs.
Dani Olmo set the tone early, putting Spain ahead in just the fourth minute after controlling Marc Cucurella’s cross to finish with precision. The hosts, who had not conceded a single goal throughout qualifying, looked in complete control — until Turkey scripted a gritty turnaround.
Deniz Gul brought Turkey level just before the interval, reacting quickest to a knock-down from a corner to become the first player to breach Spain’s defence in the campaign. The visitors returned from the break with renewed energy and soon went ahead when Borussia Dortmund midfielder Salih Ozcan unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the box.
Spain, however, refused to be rattled. Mikel Oyarzabal restored parity with a close-range finish after a scramble inside the Turkish box — his sixth goal of the qualifiers and another strong audition for the World Cup starting striker role.
Despite missing key stars like Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Rodri, Spain pushed for a winner. Samu Aghehowa and Alex Baena were denied by inspired Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, while Fermín López had a stoppage-time goal chalked off for offside.
Spain finished their qualification campaign with 21 goals scored and just two conceded, extending their national-record unbeaten run to 31 matches — though that includes their Nations League final draw and subsequent penalty shootout loss to Portugal in June.
Coach De la Fuente praised his squad’s effort but acknowledged there was more work ahead. “We will prepare well. I hope to take the best possible team to compete and try to win this beautiful competition,” he said.
For Turkey, the draw was a statement performance and valuable momentum heading into the play-offs.
As Marcos Llorente summed up: “It’s a moment to look back at what we’ve achieved and enjoy it. Qualifying for the World Cup is always special.”
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