Merino hat-trick fires Spain past Turkey in World Cup qualifier
Mikel Merino delivered the performance of his international career as Spain demolished Turkey in Konya, scoring a brilliant hat-trick to maintain La Roja’s perfect start to World Cup qualifying.
The Arsenal midfielder struck twice in the first half, both created by Mikel Oyarzabal, who enjoyed a superb night of his own with three assists. Merino opened the scoring with a composed finish after a clever cut-back, before doubling the lead with a precise header. Oyarzabal’s vision and delivery repeatedly unlocked Turkey’s defence, leaving the hosts reeling.
Merino’s third, in the 57th minute, was the pick of the bunch. Collecting a pass from 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, he curled a stunning effort from over 20 yards into the top corner, completing his hat-trick in style. It capped an extraordinary run of form for the 29-year-old, who has now scored six goals in his last six Spain appearances — a remarkable turnaround for a player who had managed just two goals in his first 31 caps.
Spain’s dominance didn’t end there. Pedri added two goals of his own with typically composed finishes, while Ferran Torres got on the scoresheet to make it six. Turkey, despite the energy of the home crowd, had no answers and were outclassed across the pitch.
The result leaves Spain top of Group E with two wins from two, underlining their intent to secure qualification early. Turkey and Georgia remain on three points, while Spain look increasingly confident under Luis de la Fuente’s guidance.
For Merino, the night was career-defining: a reminder of his growing influence at international level, and proof that Spain’s attacking threat now extends well beyond their traditional stars. With Yamal dazzling, Pedri sharp, and Oyarzabal pulling the strings, La Roja’s campaign could hardly have started more emphatically.
