Spain routs Turkey 6-0 to lead Group E by two points

Spain produced a devastating display in Konya on Sunday, routing hosts Turkey 6-0 to move two points clear at the top of Group E of 2026 World Cup qualifying. The European champions scored three times in the second half as Mikel Merino completed a hat trick and Pedri struck twice, while Ferran Torres also found the net in a result that left the packed Konya Metropolitan Municipality Stadium stunned.

Pedri opened the scoring for Spain early on after some incisive build-up play, drilling a low shot into the bottom corner. Merino made it 2-0 before the break with a composed finish after a flowing move that involved Marc Cucurella and Mikel Oyarzabal. Spain stretched their lead shortly after halftime when a quick break involving Pedri and Lamine Yamal released Ferran Torres, who finished from close range. Merino then curled home a spectacular effort to complete his treble, and Pedri added a late second to complete the rout and underline Spain’s clinical finishing.

Spain’s performance was a statement of intent after they had opened their qualifying campaign with a 3-0 win in Sofia on Thursday. The La Roja now sit top of Group E with maximum points and a goal difference of plus nine,...