Turkiye may not have the most formidable team in the 2026 UEFA World Cup Qualifiers, but head coach Vincenzo Montella has put together a balanced squad with key players who can deliver surprises. However, they face a tough challenge against Spain, which has a lineup filled with young talent. This match could determine the leader of Group E, with both teams coming off initial victories.
Head coach Luis de la Fuente initially faced skepticism but has successfully utilized young players. Under his guidance, Spain won the 2024 Euros and reached the 2025 Nations League final. Their opening match against Bulgaria ended in a 3-0 victory, highlighting their strong defense. Now, with Lamine Yamal leading the attack, Spain aims to secure another vital win.
While Montella’s squad achieved victory against Georgia in their first match, Turkiye’s defense remains a concern. The team showed offensive strength but allowed two second-half goals, making containment of Spain’s potent offense a crucial task, as they have several impactful players.
Turkiye predicted lineup vs Spain
Turkiye will miss Baris Yilmaz, who received a red card in their last match. Kerem Akturkoglu is likely to maintain his position as starting striker, leaving Montella without major issues. The team is expected to utilize a similar lineup, with Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz anticipated to lead the offense.
Kerem Akturkoglu of Turkey celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal.
Consequently, Montella’s lineup against Spain could be: Ugurcan Cakir; Mert Muldur, Merih Demiral, Abdulkerim Bardakci, Eren Elmali; Hakan Calhanoglu, Ismail Yuksek; Yunus Akgun, Arda Guler, Kenan Yildiz; Kerem Akturkoglu.
Spain predicted lineup vs Turkiye
Spain, like Turkiye, heads into the match without significant absences. De la Fuente might make slight adjustments but is expected to keep most of the core players, including Mikel Merino and Pedri in midfield. The attacking pair of Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal aims to exploit Turkiye’s defense.
Spain’s anticipated lineup is: Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Nico Williams.