Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the World Cup qualifying match.
There is a strong chance that, ultimately, Bulgaria and Spain will end up at opposite ends of the Group E standings in qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It is apparent that Spain will be close to a maximum points haul in the campaign.
Bulgaria
Bookmakers have virtually no faith in the underdog. In qualifying for UEFA Euro 2024 Bulgaria finished bottom of the group, even losing 2:0 to Lithuania, who have far fewer resources. They did not win any of their eight matches. The 2024/25 UEFA Nations League changed little: second in their League C section and defeats in the play-offs to the Republic of Ireland (2:1 and 2:1).
Bulgaria
Spain are not a middling side but the reigning European champions, who on their way to the title eliminated Germany, the tournament hosts, as well as a powerful France, and then beat England in the final — all by 2:1 scorelines. In the most recent UEFA Nations League Spain also reached the final, where they lost 3:2 on penalties to Portugal. Lamine Yamal and his team-mates are ready to shine at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Bulgaria vs Spain Prediction
Spain are full of stars, and even their squad players are a level above any player in the Bulgaria squad. We expect a comfortable away win. It may not be as emphatic as their last meeting at the 1998 FIFA World Cup (6:1), but it should still be a comprehensive margin.
