MATCH REPORT | Spain takes a strong first step towards the World Cup (0–3)

The Spanish national team played in Bulgaria for the first time against the host side. The objective, as always for the reigning European champions, was clear: claim the three points and start their campaign towards next summer’s World Cup in the best possible way.

And they did just that. Within the first five minutes, a through ball from Zubimendi from the edge of the box found Mikel Oyarzabal, who made no mistake against Vutsov. From the very start, Spain dominated possession and created multiple chances in the Bulgarian area. Bulgaria, however, nearly struck on a counterattack when Kirilov’s shot hit the post after deflecting off a Spanish defender. Minutes later, Lamine Yamal came close to Spain’s second goal, but Vutsov managed to deflect the close-range effort for a corner.

After much pressure, Spain was rewarded. Marc Cucurella pounced on a rebound at the corner of the area and unleashed a powerful angled shot that the goalkeeper could do nothing to stop. It was the first goal for the Alella-born full-back with the senior national team. Before halftime, Spain struck again through Mikel Merino. Lamine Yamal delivered a corner, and the Navarrese midfielder produced a decisive header to make it 0–3 at the break.

The second half followed the same pattern. Spain maintained possession and created the best chances throughout. In the 53rd minute, Merino smashed a shot against the crossbar, warning the opposition that Spain had no intention of easing off.

In the 62nd minute, one of the standout moments of the match occurred. Pedro Porro and Zubimendi were substituted by Dani Carvajal and Rodrigo Hernández, returning to the national team after a year following serious knee injuries. The Vasil Levski Stadium offered a warm ovation to the two captains.

Just over ten minutes from full-time, it was Jesús Rodríguez’s turn to make his debut — the 24th player to debut under Luis de la Fuente. The Alcalá de Guadaíra midfielder came on in the 79th minute, replacing Lamine Yamal.

The referee blew the final whistle with Spain victorious by 3–0. The national team starts its World Cup qualifying campaign with a win and now leads its group with three points, the same as Turkey. Georgia and Bulgaria have yet to play. Spain will travel to Turkey on Friday to face the Turkish team on Sunday in Konya, aiming to take sole leadership of the group.