Spain’s national team starts their journey towards the 2026 World Cup this Thursday. They visit Bulgaria for a crucial qualifying match. The Spanish squad aims for a strong start after a tough loss to Portugal. They fell to their rivals in the Nations League final, a result that still stings.
Coach Luis de la Fuente has made it clear: starting this qualification phase with a win is vital. “It’s super important to begin well,” he emphasized. “We know it won’t be easy. The opponent is tough, and it’s an odd time in the season. We have to give our very best.” His ambition is straightforward: “The goal is to win every single game we play.” De la Fuente also noted a soft spot in his team. They’ve let in too many goals lately, 11 in just four matches during 2025. “I expect us to score more than one goal,” he added, “but we absolutely must get better defensively. We need to be much stronger at the back.”
The coach also spoke about the buzz surrounding young star Lamine Yamal. There has been some chatter about Yamal’s life off the field. “I’ve known him since he was 16 years old,” De la Fuente stated. “He’s still just a kid. Even though he’s super mature, focused, and smart, he still needs guidance.” The coach sees himself as more than just a strategist. “As a coach, I also have a duty to teach and develop these young players. Lamine knows exactly what he wants, and we all have to back him up.” De la Fuente also put to rest any talk of internal friction. “I haven’t had to talk to anyone about egos,” he assured. “Everyone in this group is truly exemplary.”
Iliev Sees the Danger
Meanwhile, Bulgarian coach Ilian Iliev knows what’s coming. He fully understands Spain’s power. Iliev warned that their threat extends far beyond just Lamine Yamal. “We haven’t planned any special individual marking on Yamal,” he explained. “They have ten other amazing players. Our main idea is to control the Spanish team as a whole. It would be a big mistake to focus on just one player. Our guys know exactly who they’re up against.” Iliev is also counting on the home crowd. The Vasil Levski stadium in Sofia is expected to be packed to the rafters with supporters.
“It’s not every day that we get to play in front of so many fans,” the Bulgarian coach shared. “We’re going to try and use that excitement to our advantage. Even if our players aren’t always used to atmospheres like this, it will lift them.”