Spain kicks off 2026 World Cup Qualifiers as heavy favorite in Sofia against Bulgaria

The Spanish national team begins its journey toward the 2026 World Cup as one of the top favorites for the title. They do so in Sofia, at the Vasil Levski Stadium, facing a Bulgaria team in a footballing crisis, with Spain under Luis de la Fuente expected to prove their favoritism in their debut in Group E, where they will also face Turkey and Georgia.

Spain, a strong contender for the 2026 World Cup

Since 1974, Spain has not missed a single World Cup and now aims to extend its streak to 13 consecutive qualifications. As Euro 2024 champions, Nations League winners, and runners-up in the recent final against Portugal, La Roja arrives with an impressive run of 24 official matches without a loss.

The return of Dani Carvajal and Rodri

The match in Sofia marks the return of two key pillars: Dani Carvajal and Rodri Hernández, considered by De la Fuente as “the best in the world” in their positions. Both are back after overcoming serious injuries and are expected to start, despite not being at full fitness.

Absences and De la Fuente’s new lineup

The absence of Fabián Ruiz, along with those of Gavi and Álex Baena, opens the door for Mikel Merino, who will share the midfield with an increasingly decisive Pedri in controlling Spain’s tempo.

In attack, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are the major threats on the wings, while Mikel Oyarzabal earns the starting spot over Álvaro Morata. Waiting on the bench are debutants Jorge de Frutos and Jesús Rodríguez.

A struggling Bulgaria

Bulgaria arrives with more enthusiasm than quality. Without a finals appearance since Euro 2004, Ilian Iliev’s team is in an inconsistent phase, with only one win in their last seven matches. Their key players are Georgi Milanov (Dinamo Bucarest), Kiril Despodov (PAOK), and Ilia Gruev (Leeds United).

The head-to-head record is lopsided: Spain has scored 23 goals in five meetings, with four wins and one draw. The last time they faced off was 23 years ago.

All Goals From Bulgaria vs Spain in the UEFA Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup

Great goal by Oyarzabal! Spain strikes first in Sofia.

It took just five minutes for them to take the lead: the number 21 calmly finished off a great assist from Zubimendi, sending the ball into the bottom left corner.

Goal by Cucurella! Spain extends its lead to 2-0.

The left back scores his first goal for the national team after taking advantage of a rebound inside the box.

Goal by Merino! Spain leads 3-0 in Sofia.

The midfielder jumped higher than everyone else and headed in a precise corner kick from Yamal, extending La Roja's lead.