Spain secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 2-2 draw against Turkey in their final Group E qualifier on Tuesday, finishing top of the group and extending their unbeaten run to a national-record 31 matches.
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Turkey, who needed at least a draw to confirm their spot in the play-offs, became the first side to take points off Luis de la Fuente’s Euro 2024-winning team during the qualifiers.
Dani Olmo opened the scoring inside four minutes after expertly controlling Marc Cucurella’s cross and finishing clinically. Spain dominated early, but Turkey grew into the game and equalised near half-time through Deniz Gul, who reacted sharpest to a knock-down from a corner.
The visitors struck again early in the second half when Salih Ozcan fired home from the edge of the box following good build-up play. Spain levelled soon after, with Mikel Oyarzabal converting from close range to net his sixth goal of the qualifying campaign.
Despite Spain pushing for a winner, Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir delivered a standout performance, denying several efforts from long range and a late header from Samu Aghehowa.
Spain, missing key players including Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Rodri, still completed their qualifying campaign with 21 goals scored and just two conceded.
“We’re happy to qualify, but we wanted a win and clean sheet,” Olmo told TVE, reflecting the team’s mixed emotions.
De la Fuente said there was “a lot of work to do” ahead of the World Cup but expressed confidence in Spain’s depth and readiness to compete for a second world title.
Turkey finish second in Group E and head into the play-offs with renewed belief after ending Spain’s perfect run.
