Spain Dominates Bulgaria as Mikel Merino Shines in World Cup Qualifier
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino scored twice as Spain secured a convincing victory over Bulgaria, bringing them closer to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
Spain has established a strong position in Group E, achieving four consecutive victories. The team has scored 15 goals while maintaining a clean sheet, having conceded none.
Despite Spain's success, Turkey remains a contender for the top spot, currently sitting second in the standings with nine points, three behind Spain.
Merino opened the scoring with a header in the first half and added a second goal after the break, powerfully nodding the ball into the bottom corner.
In excellent form, Merino has now netted six goals in four World Cup qualifiers.
Spain extended their lead late in the match when Atanas Chernev inadvertently scored an own goal, and Mikel Oyarzabal capped off the scoring with a penalty in injury time.