A Result Expected Yet Underwhelming
Spain secured direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup after a 2–2 home draw with Turkey, finishing top of the group without a single defeat. The outcome was never in doubt, but the performance left fans with mixed feelings. Turkey’s resilience not only ended Spain’s perfect defensive record but also highlighted a worrying issue — Spain’s defensive space in front of the penalty area.
Fans following the qualifiers on 12BET Malaysia would agree the match felt far less dominant than their previous 6–0 meeting. Don’t miss more World Cup insights — login 12BET to stay updated.
Bright Start but No Big Win This Time
Spain needed only to avoid a ridiculous seven-goal defeat to secure first place, and the early minutes suggested another smooth win. In just four minutes, Cucurella’s low cross caused chaos in the box, allowing Dani Olmo to slot in the opener.
But unlike Spain’s easy win over Georgia, the hosts struggled to gain full control. Olmo had chances to widen the gap, yet Turkey’s goalkeeper Bayındır kept them alive.
The match also showed that while Zubimendi might replace Rodri at times, Aleix García still struggles to match that level in the national team — something that bettors at 12BET Malaysia likely noticed.
Turkey Fight Back Before Halftime
Spain’s full-backs pushed aggressively, especially Marcos Llorente, leaving space behind. Turkey capitalised on a late corner, punishing Spain’s poor marking and relaxed offside line.
The second half opened with both goalkeepers putting on a show — Bayındır denying Ruiz’s one-on-one, and Unai Simón stopping a spectacular bicycle kick from Yılmaz.
A Stunning Strike and a Quick Response
Turkey needed a miracle to overturn Spain’s overall goal difference, yet they played with real ambition. In the 54th minute, Özcan fired a low shot through traffic into the bottom corner, leaving Simón helpless.
Fortunately for Spain, luck arrived quickly. Another Cucurella cross caused confusion, and after a defensive mistake, Oyarzabal slammed in the equaliser. Although his finishing form was inconsistent, his link-up play was crucial against Turkey’s five-man defence.
Late Pressure but No Winner
Spain pushed hard in the final 20 minutes, ignoring the counter-attacking risk. Ferran Torres, Fermín and Omorodion all missed big chances as Turkey clung on.
Spain still celebrated qualification, but the mood was complicated. Compared with the previous World Cup qualifying cycle — full of stumbles and tense moments — this campaign shows clear improvement. Fans and punters on 12BET Malaysia now have more reason to expect a stronger showing on the world stage.
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