Berlin, Nov 16 – Spain clinched a 4‑0 win over Georgia in the ninth round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, keeping its spot in the next tournament almost guaranteed. Mikel Oyarzabal was the star, scoring twice and creating a goal for Ferran Torres.
Spain took control from the first kick in Tbilisi, pressing hard and catching the Georgian defense off‑balance. Their early pressure paid off when Ferran Torres sent a wide ball that hit a Georgian defender’s arm. Oyarzabal calmly converted the penalty to give Spain an early lead.
Just minutes later, Martin Zubimendi finished a smart through pass over Giorgi Mamardashvili, doubling Spain’s advantage. Georgia tried to push forward and win back possession, but Spain’s attacks stayed sharp. Oyarzabal set up Torres with a low pass that led to a third goal before the break.
The Spanish continued to dominate after halftime, maintaining tight passing and denying space to the Georgians. Oyarzabal scored his second with a header from a Torres cross in the second half, finishing the match with two goals and an assist before being taken off to a round of applause from traveling fans.
With a large goal difference and an unbeaten record, Spain goes into next week’s final group game with qualification almost certain. Georgia, already out of the playoff race, will finish its qualifying journey in Bulgaria.
In other group matches, Switzerland beat Sweden 4‑1 to enter the final day three points ahead and with a league‑wide advantage of 11 goals. Switzerland got early space when Breel Embolo lifted a goal from a Dan Ndoye cross. Sweden sparked back with Benjamin Nygren before the break. Switzerland pulled ahead again with a penalty from Granit Xhaka and a last‑minute goal from substitute Johan Manzambi.
Turkey remained unbeaten with a 2‑0 win over Bulgaria in Group E, but Spain’s victory kept the top spot in the group alive. Belgium drew 1‑1 with Kazakhstan in Group J, missing a chance to secure qualification. Wales edged Liechtenstein 1‑0 to keep their hopes alive.
Austria advanced further toward World Cup qualification with a 2‑0 victory against Cyprus in Group H. Slovenia fell 2‑0 to Kosovo, while Denmark drew 2‑2 with Belarus, and Scotland lost 3‑2 to Greece.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
