Real Madrid star fires Turkey warning to in-form Spain | OneFootball

Spain head off to Turkey for their second 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier after a superb 3-0 win on the road in Bulgaria.

Luis de la Fuente stormed to victory via three first half goals in Levski with Premier League trio Mikel Zubimendi, Marc Cucurella and Mikel Merino all on target.

La Roja bounced back from June’s defeat to Portugal in the UEFA Nations League final and they have the edge on Turkey at the top of Group E.

Turkey sealed a win in their opening qualifier, but were forced to survive a late scare, with a 3-2 win in Georgia.

A trip to Konya could prove to be Spain’s toughest qualification test and they will take on a familiar face with Real Madrid star Arda Guler a key name for the hosts.

Guler has started all three of Real Madrid’s opening games of the new La Liga season and Xabi Alonso has placed real faith in the 20-year-old.

Arda Guler warns Spain over Turkey test

The former Fenerbahce playmaker is full of confidence and had a warning for Spain ahead of their visit to the Torku Arena.

Image via Didac Aguirre

“It will be a difficult match, but it won’t be easy for Spain. They don’t know about the incredible atmosphere in Konya,” as per Diario AS.

“We want to keep bringing joy to our fans. So, let’s not underestimate ourselves. We’ll do our best against Spain and it will be a very good match.”

Spain have lost just twice to Turkey in 12 meetings with three successive wins since 2009.

The most recent clash came via a 3-0 win at UEFA Euro 2016  with two goals from Alvaro Morata.

Spain were victorious home and away in their qualification for the 2010 World Cup – which Vicente del Bosque side won in South Africa – with Alonso scoring from the penalty spot in the Istanbul game.