MATCH PREVIEW | Valladolid Sets the Course Toward the World Cup

Two years on, the national team returns to Valladolid — a city where Spain has maintained a perfect record at the José Zorrilla: four matches, four wins. The team will look to extend that unbeaten run this evening against Bulgaria as they continue their path toward the next World Cup.

After three consecutive victories in this qualifying campaign, Luis de la Fuente’s side — leaders of Group E — have the chance to take a major step toward securing their place at the intercontinental tournament, even though qualification cannot be mathematically confirmed until the November fixtures. The challenge has ignited huge excitement among fans, who are expected to fill the stands at the José Zorrilla.

Official Squad Numbers for the Match

There is no shortage of motivation heading into this encounter. Spain holds a historic record of five wins and one drawagainst Bulgaria in their six meetings since 1933 — the most recent being last month’s 3–0 victory at the Vasil Levski National Stadium in Sofia.

Luis de la Fuente’s team, unbeaten in regulation time since 29 March 2023, could tonight equal the record of 29 consecutive matches without defeat set by Vicente del Bosque’s side between 2010 and 2013. In addition, should Unai Simón feature, he will become the Athletic Club player with the most international appearances (54), surpassing Joseba Etxeberria.

The Basque goalkeeper is also just 34 minutes away from setting his personal best for minutes played without conceding a goal for Spain.

The match will be broadcast live on La 1 (TVE) from 20:45.

There is belief, excitement, and every reason for optimism — because, as head coach Luis de la Fuente said in his pre-match remarks:

“This team is very hungry for victory.”