The Spanish national team are back in action tonight as they take on Bulgaria in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at the Nuevo José Zorrilla Stadium in Valladolid. Spain have been unstoppable so far, and fans expect another convincing performance from the group leaders.
A Perfect Start for Spain
After three matches, Spain lead Group E with 9 points, scoring 11 goals and conceding none. Manager Luis de la Fuente has built a confident and well-balanced squad that combines experienced leaders like Morata and Rodri with young stars such as Pedri, Yamal, and Gavi.
Spain’s attack has been ruthless — they opened their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Bulgaria, followed by a 6-0 thrashing of Turkey, and most recently, a 2-0 win against Georgia.
This impressive run marks their 10th straight game scoring at least twice, showcasing their offensive brilliance.
Bulgaria’s Tough Journey
Bulgaria’s campaign, on the other hand, has been disastrous. With zero points from three games, the team’s defense has struggled to cope with the speed and skill of their opponents. Coach Ilian Iliev will demand a more disciplined display from his players, hoping to avoid another heavy defeat.
Head-to-Head Record
Spain have historically dominated this fixture. In their last five meetings, Spain have won four and drawn one, scoring 14 goals and conceding just two.
The first leg of this qualifier ended 3-0 in favor of Spain, proving the gap in class between the two sides.
Players to Watch
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Spain: Rodri, Lamine Yamal, Álvaro Morata
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Bulgaria: Kiril Despodov, Spas Delev
Spain’s Rodri remains the heartbeat of the team, controlling possession and dictating tempo, while Lamine Yamal, at just 18 years old, continues to impress with his creativity and pace.
Stadium Atmosphere
The Nuevo José Zorrilla will provide a festive environment, with thousands of fans expected to celebrate Spain’s likely qualification march. The venue, known for its vibrant crowd and great visibility, has hosted several international fixtures over the years.
Where to Watch
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Spain: RTVE (La 1)
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Bulgaria: bTV Action
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International: beIN Sports, UEFA.tv
Manager’s Thoughts
Speaking ahead of the match, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said:
“We respect every opponent, but our goal is to win every match and keep improving. The players are focused, and the spirit in the camp is excellent.”
Prediction
Spain should continue their flawless run with another dominant display. Bulgaria’s only realistic goal will be damage limitation against one of the best teams in Europe.
Predicted Score: Spain 5-0 Bulgaria