Spain and Turkey faced off in a tense final matchday of the UEFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, which ended in a 2–2 draw. The match had high stakes as both teams were near the top of Group E, with qualification implications until the final minutes.
Spain opened the scoring early through Dani Olmo in the 4th minute, and Turkey responded with Daniel Gul in the 42nd minute. The second half saw S. Ozcan put Turkey ahead in the 54th minute, but Mikel Oyarzabal equalized in the 62nd, ending the match 2-2.
Following the draw, Spain finished first in Group E and secured direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Turkey, on the other hand, had to settle with a second-place finish and therefore a spot in the UEFA playoffs with 15 other teams.
Spain move forward
Ferran Torres and Samu Aghehowa of Spain look on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match. Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images
The draw confirms Spain’s consistency and dominance throughout the qualifying campaign, allowing the team to focus on preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Turkey haven’t been eliminated from World Cup contention though, as they will fight for one of the four spots at stake in March 2026.
SurveyWill Spain maintain momentum heading into the 2026 World Cup?
Will Spain maintain momentum heading into the 2026 World Cup?
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