Spain Dominates Bulgaria 4-0 in Crucial 2026 World Cup Qualifier

In a commanding display on Tuesday, Spain secured a decisive 4-0 victory over Bulgaria at Estadio José Zorrilla in Valladolid, intensifying their perfect start in the European qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Spain, the reigning Euro champions, showcased their superiority throughout the match under the guidance of coach Luis de la Fuente. They controlled possession, created numerous chances, and maintained relentless pressure on their opponents.

The scoring began in the 35th minute when Mikel Merino opened the tally with a precise header following a clever through ball from Pedri. Spain continued to dominate possession and chances but was initially unlucky not to increase their lead before halftime.

Merino doubled his contribution shortly after the hour mark by rising highest to head in a cross from Alex Grimaldo, solidifying Spain's dominance. The victory was further sealed by an own goal from Bulgarian defender Atanas Chernev and a late penalty expertly converted by Mikel Oyarzabal in stoppage time.

The statistics tell a story of control and dominance: Spain recorded an expected goals (xG) of 3.87 and 20 shots, while Bulgaria managed only 0.38 xG and minimal threatening opportunities, rarely venturing confidently into Spain's penalty area.

This emphatic win places Spain at the top of Group E with 12 points from four games, needing just four more points to secure automatic qualification for the World Cup finals. Conversely, Bulgaria remains at zero points and has been mathematically eliminated from qualification contention, awaiting at least until 2030 for their next World Cup appearance.

Pedri’s creative influence was vital, earning commendations from coach Luis de la Fuente, who praised his continued stellar performances for both Spain and his club Barcelona.

Spain's unblemished qualifying campaign underscores their status as one of the leading international teams, with ambitions high ahead of the 2026 tournament. Meanwhile, Bulgaria's struggles highlighted the gulf in quality and experience between the sides on this occasion.