Merino Scores a Hat-Trick Against Turkey: First in a Decade!

The Spanish national team visited Konya for their second World Cup qualifier. Under coach De la Fuente, La Roja dominated Turkey, securing a remarkable 6-0 victory.

The first half saw an early injury to Nico Williams, but Pedri scored, and Merino added two goals to solidify their lead. In the second half, Ferran Torres scored, Pedri got his second goal, and Merino completed his hat trick.

This season, the Arsenal midfielder has scored six goals in six appearances for Spain. He is now only the second midfielder in Spanish history to score three times in one match, following Isco’s performance against Argentina in 2018.

After two matches, Spain leads their group. The reigning European champions will face Georgia next on October 11.