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In the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier game between Spain and Turkey, the former vanquished the latter by 6-0. Before this game, Turkey looked exceptional against Georgia and racked up a 3-2 win. However, against the 2010 champions, Turkey looked completely out of rhythm and got decimated completely. In the game, Pedro and Mikel Merino looked relentless for Spain and outclassed the Turkish side. Merino scored thrice while Pedro notched up a couple of goals. Ferran Torres also scored one goal in the 53rd minute.
During the contest, when Turkey saw themselves struggling, their young stalwart Arda Guler got frustrated, lost his cool, and collided with Lamine Yamal. Both Guler and Yamal are renowned figures in the sport and their clash became the talk of the town. In a viral clip on social media, Guler can be seen pushing the 18-year-old Spanish twice. Referee Michael Oliver intervened and stopped the altercation. Oliver issued a warning to Yamal to bring the situation under control. At the club level, Guler serves Real Madrid while Yamal is a part of La Liga’s reigning champions Barcelona. Following this incident, both are expected to spice up the iconic El Classico rivalry.
Arda Guler spoke about Lamine Yamal before the match
Prior to the contest, Arda Guler spoke to the media and talked about his comparison with Yamal despite not playing in the same position for their respective teams. “I don’t have much to say about Lamine Yamal," he told the media. "We don’t play in the same positions. But I still understand the comparisons, because he’s at Barcelona and I’m at Real Madrid. I wish him the best. I’m not surprised by what Lamine is achieving. He’s very talented and he’ll do his best to make things difficult for us,” remarked Guler.
Following Spain’s dominating triumph, Turkey have been relegated to the third spot with three points in Group E while the 2010 champions are currently in the top spot with six points. Georgia are in second place with their only win against Bulgaria.
