The Spain national team faces one of its toughest challenges this Sunday in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. After thrashing Bulgaria in their opener, Luis de la Fuente’s side will take on Turkey in Konya, a team that has grown under Vincenzo Montella and looks to Arda Güler as its main hope.

It will be a high-stakes clash for the leadership of Group E, in a reduced-capacity stadium but with an atmosphere that promises to be fiery.

Spain looks to extend its unbeaten run

The Spanish side comes in on fire: they are unbeaten in 26 official matches, a streak that puts them close to their all-time record. Coach Luis de la Fuente has a very settled starting XI, with Dean Huijsen solid in defense, Pedri as the midfield brain, and the wings occupied by Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Up front, Mikel Oyarzabal has nailed down the starting striker role thanks to his scoring efficiency.

The only change could come at right-back, where Dani Carvajal is set to replace Pedro Porro after recovering from injury. Despite their strong start to the Qualifiers, the coach has made it clear: the demand is to win every game and not underestimate any opponent.

Turkey trusts in Arda Güler and Konya’s pressure

The Turkish national team wants to make a statement and move closer to its third World Cup, after its historic third-place finish in 2002. Arda Güler, only 20 years old, has become the offensive leader and the figure fans were waiting for. The playmaker, alongside players like Hakan Çalhanoglu and Kerem Aktürkoglu, leads Montella’s project, with the coach insisting his team has “all the weapons to go toe-to-toe with Spain.”

Turkey will be without Baris Yilmaz, suspended, but will stick to a clear plan: limit Spain’s possession and exploit the speed of their attackers in a stadium where the crowd’s energy can make the difference.

The Turkey vs Spain clash is not only a battle between two teams fighting for control of their group, it’s also a generational duel between Arda Güler and Lamine Yamal, two of Europe’s most promising young talents. For La Roja, the mission is to keep their unbeaten streak alive and take another firm step toward a 13th consecutive World Cup qualification.