Sabasports Match Preview
World Cup Qualification: Turkey vs Spain
Kickoff Time: 2025-09-08 02:45 (HKT)
Source: REUTERS/Stoyan Nenov
This is the second round of Group E in the 2026 World Cup European Qualifiers. In the first round, Turkey, playing away, defeated Georgia 3-2. However, the victory was not easily achieved. Although Turkey established an early 3-0 lead, substitute Barıs Alper Yılmaz was sent off with a direct red card for a serious foul. In the final 20 minutes of the match, Turkey had to play with 10 men. After expending tremendous physical effort, they ultimately held on to the win. Statistically, Real Madrid star Arda Guler underperformed. Throughout the match, Guler contributed mediocre numbers: two shots, one successful dribble, two times dispossessed, one tackle, zero interceptions, zero clearances, and zero blocks. It could be said he was disconnected from the team’s tactics. Fortunately, Fenerbahce forward Kerem Akturkoglu stepped up, scoring twice. He has now reached 14 goals for the national team.
Spain, the 2024 European Champions, boast stars like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Rodri, each valued at over €100 million. In their first match, Spain comfortably defeated Bulgaria 3-0 away, securing a successful start. Reviewing the game, the team had already established a three-goal lead by halftime. In the second half, Spain utilized a possession-based strategy to conserve energy while firmly maintaining their advantage. Throughout the match, Spain dominated with 78% possession, 24 shot attempts (12 on target) – a truly impressive statistic. In contrast, Bulgaria managed only a meager four shots. Spain is currently on a 21-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, with their last loss in regular time dating back to a friendly in March 2024. Additionally, Rodri and Daniel Carvajal have recovered from injuries and came on as substitutes in the midweek match. Spain can now field their strongest lineup for this game.
In terms of strength and reputation, Spain far surpasses Turkey. Moreover, Turkey has lost its physical advantage, and this match may see them forced into a defensive struggle. It is believed that Spain can easily overcome Turkey.
Turkey’s Last 5 Games: WLWWW
25-09-05 Georgia 2-3 Turkey
25-06-11 Mexico 1-0 Turkey
25-06-08 USA 1-2 Turkey
25-03-24 Hungary 0-3 Turkey
25-03-21 Turkey 3-1 Hungary
Spain’s Last 5 Games: WDWDD
25-09-05 Bulgaria 0-3 Spain
25-06-09 Portugal 2-2 Spain (ET 0-0 PEN 5-3)
25-06-06 Spain 5-4 France
25-03-24 Spain 2-2 Netherlands (ET 1-1 PEN 5-4)
25-03-21 Netherlands 2-2 Spain
Head-To-Head Record
16-06-18 Spain 3-0 Turkey
09-04-02 Turkey 1-2 Spain
09-03-29 Spain 1-0 Turkey
Prediction: Spain to win