Spain have taken a significant step toward securing automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a commanding 4-0 victory over Georgia in Tbilisi. Under the guidance of manager Luis de la Fuente, the 2010 World Cup winners remain top of Group E, three points clear, and require only a minor miracle—a seven-goal defeat at home to Turkey—to miss out on automatic qualification.

Dominant Performance in Tbilisi

Spain’s dominance was evident from the first whistle. The team needed just 11 minutes to open the scoring when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty after a handball by Georgia’s Giorgi Gocholeishvili.

Eleven minutes later, Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi doubled the lead with a precise strike over Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. Former Manchester City forward Ferran Torres added a third goal before half-time from a deft pass by Oyarzabal, putting Spain firmly in control of the match.

In the 63rd minute, Torres provided a curling cross that Oyarzabal headed home to complete his brace and seal Spain’s 4-0 win.

Perfect Qualifying Record

Spain, currently world number one in the FIFA rankings, have won all five of their qualifying matches so far. They have scored an impressive 19 goals while maintaining a flawless defensive record, having not conceded a single goal.

Despite Turkey’s 2-0 victory over Bulgaria—thanks to Hakan Calhanoglu’s penalty and an own goal by Atanas Chernev—Spain’s superior goal difference of +14 ensures that only a seven-goal loss at home in Sevilla would prevent them from qualifying automatically for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Looking Ahead to Turkey Clash

The final Group E fixture between Spain and Turkey on Tuesday promises to be tense, but Spain hold all the cards. A single point against the second-placed Turkish side will confirm their place at next year’s World Cup finals, ending any suspense and securing a perfect qualifying campaign.

Spain’s attacking prowess, defensive solidity, and clinical finishing make them strong contenders for World Cup glory, and this latest victory highlights their readiness for next summer’s tournament.