Spain Qualify for 2026 World Cup After Draw

Spain secured their place in the 2026 World Cup after a 2–2 draw against
Turkey in their final qualifying match on Tuesday, finishing first in Group
E.Turkey came second and will now play in the play-offs. They also became the
first team to make Spain drop points in this qualifying campaign.
Spain took the lead through Dani Olmo, but Turkey responded with goals from
Deniz Gul and Salih Ozcan. These were the first goals Spain conceded in the
qualifiers. Mikel Oyarzabal later scored to level the match in Seville.
Spain ended the qualifiers with 21 goals scored and only two conceded. They
are also unbeaten in a national-record 31 matches. However, that streak
includes a 2–2 draw against Portugal in the Nations League final, which Spain
eventually lost on penalties.
Turkey showed that Spain still have weaknesses, especially since several key
Spanish players—Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Rodri—were missing.
“There is a lot of work ahead, and many things to think about. But we will
prepare well,” said Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, who was also unhappy that
young Barca star Yamal had to miss the match due to a groin injury.