Spain secured a direct place at the 2026 FIFA world cup after a thrilling draw with Turkey in a 2-2 draw in Sevilian stadium Estadio La Cartuja on Tuesday securing the number 1 position in Group E and an outstanding five clean sheets in six matches. Not only did the outcome qualify Spain, but also, it continued their 30-match streak in competitive competitions.
It was a very energetic beginning of the match with Dani Olmo scoring in the fourth minute to complete an incisive cut-back by Marc Cucurella. It was a 12th international goal of Olmo and his first start since March, which served as a strength in the run-up to the tournament next summer.
Turkey, however, was not to be outclassed. Before the interval, the visitors leveled the playing field as Deniz Gul scooted the ball to the back of Unai Simon ranking on a momentary defensive slip on behalf of La Roja. Turkey then jumped forward in the 54th minute courtesy of Salih Ozcan who shot a low ball into the bottom-left corner, threatening briefly the unbeaten streak of Spain and making them vulnerable.
Spain responded quickly. At the 62nd minute, the match was drawn after Mikel Oyarzabal tapped in a goal in a close range after Yeremy Pino had shot through the line. The objective rejuvenated the Spanish pace and practically closed the ambitions of Turkey to occupy the first place.
Both goalkeepers had excellent performances throughout the match. The Altay Bayindir of Turkey foiled Olmo twice in the early power of Spain, and Simon had given an important save to prevent an acrobatic save by Baris Yilmaz.
As Turkey loses the draw, they will have to contend with a play-off path, and Spain will be the only two European champions to leave the qualifiers without defeat.
