Spain Secure Commanding 3-0 Victory In Bulgaria as Cucurella Opens International Account

Key Takeaways:

• Spain recorded a 3-0 triumph in Sofia in their opening World Cup qualifier last night
• Marc Cucurella scored his first international goal with a precise strike on the half-hour mark
• Debuts and notable comebacks featured in the latter stages, including first international minutes for Jesus Rodriguez

Early Tactical Decisions Pay Off for La Roja

European Champions Spain began their World Cup qualifying campaign in style with a comprehensive 3-0 victory away to Bulgaria. Manager Luis de la Fuente opted for Mikel Oyarzabal in the central attacking role, while midfielder Pedri slotted into a trio alongside Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino, with Fabián Ruiz sidelined. Robin Le Normand returned in defence, paired with Dean Huijsen at centre-back.

The selections immediately bore fruit, as Zubimendi orchestrated play in the opening stages. Within five minutes, he picked out Oyarzabal in the penalty area, with the striker expertly controlling and dispatching the ball to open the scoring. Spain continued to dominate proceedings, particularly down the right through the lively Lamine Yamal.

Spain DESTROYED Bulgaria in the first half 🇪🇸💥 pic.twitter.com/AXt0jhBzQe

— LiveScore (@livescore) September 4, 2025

Cucurella Breaks His International Duck

La Roja doubled their lead on 30 minutes after a partially cleared cross from Lamine Yamal found Marc Cucurella. The Chelsea full-back struck an emphatic drive back across goal, registering his inaugural goal for the national side. Shortly before the interval, Lamine Yamal’s pinpoint cross from corner found the unmarked Merino in the six-yard area, whose finish effectively settled the contest before half-time.

Spain nearly extended their advantage further before the interval, with Merino and Lamine Yamal both denied by superb stops from goalkeeper Svetoslav Vutsov and defender Kristian Dimitrov.

Substitute Appearances and Missed Opportunities in the Second Half

The second period followed a similar narrative, albeit without additional goals. Lamine Yamal continued to generate chances, including a notable opportunity from the penalty spot, but Vutsov reacted swiftly to keep the scoreline unchanged. Merino also came close with a powerful effort that rattled the crossbar following intricate build-up play.

Changes from the bench garnered attention in the latter half. De la Fuente fielded Pau Cubarsi alongside Dean Huijsen in defence for the first time, while Dani Carvajal and Rodri made their returns to international action following cruciate ligament injuries. Jesus Rodriguez also made his senior debut for Spain, replacing Lamine Yamal and producing several exciting touches.

Group Standings and Next Challenge

With this comfortable opening win, Spain moved to the top of the qualifying group on goal difference, ahead of Turkiye, who earned a 3-2 win over Georgia in their opener. All Spain players are available as they prepare for Sunday night’s crucial fixture in Konya against group rivals Turkiye.