Mikel Merino Spain
Image credit: Getty Images
Reigning European champions Spain made a perfect start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a commanding 3-0 win over Bulgaria at the Vasil Levski National Stadium on Thursday evening.
First-half goals from Mikel Oyarzabal, Marc Cucurella, and Arsenal’s Mikel Merino sealed the points for Luis de la Fuente’s side, who dominated possession and dictated the tempo from start to finish.
Oyarzabal struck after just five minutes, latching onto a precise through ball from Martin Zubimendi to put Spain ahead. Cucurella doubled the advantage with a composed finish on the half-hour mark, before Merino capped off a relentless opening period by powering home a header from Lamine Yamal’s corner in the 38th minute.
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Spain remained in control after the interval, carving out further opportunities but settling for a three-goal margin against a Bulgarian side that showed resilience but struggled to cope with La Roja’s intensity.
Merino, who recently joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad, was one of the standout performers on the night. Playing the full 90 minutes, he combined tireless defensive work with an attacking threat, registering five shots and coming close with a powerful effort tipped onto the crossbar.
Martin Zubimendi
Martin Zubimendi provided an assist for Spain against Bulgaria (Image credit: Getty Images)
Spanish outlet Sports Dunia awarded him an 8.5/10, praising his “all-action display,” while WhoScored ranked him as Spain’s top performer. Fans on social media also hailed his energy and impact, with Arsenal supporters particularly encouraged by his display.
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Zubimendi, Merino’s former Real Sociedad teammate, was equally influential in midfield. The 25-year-old set up Oyarzabal’s opener and controlled proceedings with composure, recording 54 touches, two key passes, and two big chances created in the first half alone. Media outlets highlighted his pivotal role, with Flashscore noting how his partnership with Merino overwhelmed Bulgaria’s midfield.
The result leaves Spain top of their qualifying group after the opening round of fixtures. Manager Luis de la Fuente praised the intensity and balance provided by his midfield, pointing to Merino and Zubimendi as central to the victory.
Spain now prepare to host Georgia in their next qualifier, with the Basque duo expected to remain at the heart of De la Fuente’s plans as La Roja build momentum on the road to the 2026 World Cup.
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