Overview

• Spain cruised in Valladolid as Mikel Merino scored two headers before an Atanas Chernev own goal and a Mikel Oyarzabal stoppage‑time penalty, which Merino won, completed the 4-0 scoreline.
• Merino’s brace gives him six goals in his last four Spain appearances as his form continues to drive the European champions’ attack.
• Luis de la Fuente’s side have opened Group E with four wins from four, a 15–0 goals tally, and a three-point lead over Turkey with Georgia third.
• Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi impressed in 63 minutes at the base of midfield, completing 81 of 82 passes for 99% accuracy.
• Spain’s run of 29 competitive matches unbeaten equals the mark set under Vicente del Bosque between 2010 and 2013.