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Spain team 2025 against Georgia |
Spain claimed an important 2–0 victory over Georgia on Saturday night at the Manuel Martínez Valero Stadium in Elche, in the UEFA qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This win strengthened La Roja’s lead at the top of Group E and brought them a step closer to securing direct qualification.
In this detailed report, we’ll break down the match events, tactical moments, key performances, and official stats, with references to trusted football sources such as FIFA, UEFA, and Reuters.
Let’s dive into the full match analysis and see how Spain dominated from start to finish.
Group Context and Pre-Match Scenario
Group E includes Spain, Georgia, Turkey, and Bulgaria. (Wikipedia)
The group winners qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, while second place enters the UEFA playoff round.
Before this match, Spain led the group with six points from two wins, while Georgia had just three.
According to the latest FIFA World Ranking, Spain regained the top spot globally for the first time since 2014.
Thus, this match wasn’t just routine. it was a key clash in confirming Spain’s dominance and control of the group.
Line-Ups and Tactical Setup
Spain
Coach Luis de la Fuente fielded a balanced starting XI despite several absences (Rodri, Lamine Yamal, and Nico Williams).
The front line featured Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres, and Yeremy Pino, supported by Pedri and Mikel Merino in midfield.
In defense, Le Normand and Cubarsi formed a solid partnership. (Football España)
Georgia
Georgia, on the other hand, adopted a deep defensive block, relying on compact lines and rare counterattacks.
Goalkeeper Mamardashvili delivered another strong performance, denying Spain several early chances.
First Half : Total Spanish Control
From the opening whistle, Spain imposed their usual rhythm of high pressing and ball possession.
In the 5th minute, Ferran Torres appealed for a penalty after a challenge, but the referee waved play on after VAR review.
Right-back Pedro Porro was one of the most active players, sending dangerous crosses that tested Mamardashvili.
In the 24th minute, Spain broke the deadlock through Yeremy Pino, who finished a brilliant team move involving Pedri and Le Normand.
After the goal, Spain grew in confidence and continued to dominate. Oyarzabal and Merino both went close before halftime.
The first half ended with a well-deserved 1–0 lead for La Roja, as Georgia barely crossed midfield.
Second Half : Oyarzabal Seals the Win
Spain returned from the break determined to finish the job.
Within five minutes, Ferran Torres missed two golden chances a header over the bar and a one-on-one saved by Mamardashvili.
The post denied Spain twice in quick succession after strikes from Porro and Oyarzabal in the 53rd minute.
Finally, in the 64th minute, Mikel Oyarzabal doubled the lead with a stunning left-footed free kick into the top corner a world-class finish.
Georgia’s coach made three substitutions in an attempt to change momentum, introducing Davitashvili, Kvernadze, and Jighauri, but Spain remained in full control.
De la Fuente responded with his own changes, giving minutes to Marcos Llorente and Pablo Barrios.
In the closing stages, Spain slowed the tempo, circulating the ball comfortably until the referee blew the final whistle.
A dominant display, capped with a clean sheet and full control from start to finish.
Tactical and Technical Analysis
Ball Possession and Control
Spain maintained over 80% possession, suffocating Georgia’s attempts to build up play.
The coordination between midfield and attack was exceptional, particularly the link between Pedri and Oyarzabal.
Georgia’s defense spent most of the match defending deep, unable to relieve pressure. (Reuters)
Key Players
Pedri orchestrated the rhythm with intelligence and precision passing.
Pedro Porro was lively down the right, constantly delivering dangerous crosses.
Oyarzabal was the standout performer.
a goal, leadership, and relentless energy.
Pino’s goal gave Spain early stability and confidence.
Defensively, Le Normand and Cubarsi were composed and effective in cutting off counterattacks.
Spain’s collective play was the true star of the night structured, fluid, and confident.
Impact on Qualification Hopes
With this win, Spain increased their tally to 9 points from 3 matches, maintaining a perfect record in the group.
This result puts them in a commanding position ahead of upcoming fixtures against Turkey and Bulgaria.
If they continue this form, Spain could mathematically secure qualification before the final round of games.
De la Fuente’s squad depth, tactical discipline, and attacking variety make La Roja one of the most complete teams in the UEFA zone heading toward the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
FIFA.com Ranking – Spain top the world again
UEFA.Com – European Qualifiers overview
Reuters – Spain vs Georgia Match Report
Football España.Com– Post-match summary