Before the match, Spain led Group E with 15 points, three points ahead of Turkey, holding a significant goal difference of +19 compared to +5. The reigning Euro champions could afford to lose by up to 6 goals and still qualify for the World Cup. With qualification secured, they started strong. In the 4th minute, Dani Olmo scored from close range, converting Marc Cucurella's left-wing cross.

Turkey had already determined they would not compete with Spain for direct qualification in this match. The visiting team rested key players Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz to prevent potential suspensions for the upcoming play-off rounds. Despite this, the remaining players played confidently against an opponent who had beaten them 6-0 in the first leg.

Oyarzabal celebrates his 2-2 equalizer in the Spain - Turkey World Cup qualifier on 18/11. *Photo: Reuters*

Spain's stability wavered late in the first half. In the 43rd minute, Deniz Gul capitalized on a defensive error from a corner kick, tapping in the equalizer for 1-1. Then, in the 54th minute, Salih Ozcan fired a low shot from 25 meters, putting Turkey up 2-1.

After falling behind, the reigning Euro champions finally awoke. In the 62nd minute, Mikel Oyarzabal tapped in a rebound from a teammate's shot, sparing Spain a home defeat and leveling the score at 2-2.

Spain topped Group E in the European qualifiers, finishing with five wins, one draw, 16 points, 21 goals scored, and two conceded. Meanwhile, Turkey finished second with 13 points.

Turkey will join 15 other teams, including Italy, Denmark, Ukraine, Poland, Wales, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Republic of Ireland, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, Romania, Sweden, North Macedonia, and Northern Ireland. These teams will be drawn into four groups to compete for four play-off spots.

Thanh Quy