🧮 What’s missing? Spain’s path to the 2026 World Cup

The Spanish national team continues its perfect run in the qualifying phase for the 2026 World Cup.

After defeating Georgia 2-0 in Elche, La Roja has three wins in three matches, solidifying its position as the leader of Group E with 9 points.

The goals from Yeremy Pino and Mikel Oyarzabal, along with possession exceeding 80%, demonstrate their dominance, and with these stats in hand, only one question remains: what does Spain need to secure their ticket?

Can Spain qualify on Tuesday?

Not yet, but a combination of results could virtually secure their spot. 

A victory against Bulgaria, coupled with a defeat or draw for Turkey against Georgia, could leave Spain with an insurmountable lead in the group. 

Let's remember that the national team leads the group with 9 points, while Turkey has 6.

The next challenge will be Bulgaria, a team ranked 86th in the FIFA rankings. Although historically they have been a competitive team, their current level should not pose a threat to Spain. 

What happens in case of a tie in points?

If the Turks lose, Spain would lead by 6 points with only 6 points left in play. If they draw, a Spanish victory would put them five points ahead.

In any case, the tiebreaker criteria would favor Spain in almost all possible scenarios since La Roja has a goal difference of +11 compared to Turkey's +0, and the head-to-head also favors Spain, who won 0-6 in their visit to Turkey.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 NIKOLAY DOYCHINOV - AFP or licensors