Spain defeat Georgia, 100% record in World Cup qualifying stays

Spain 2-0 Georgia

Spain have made it three wins from three in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, having disposed of Georgia in their clash at the at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero in Elche.

Luis de la Fuente further risked the ire of Barcelona and their supporters by starting Pedri, although it  paid dividends in the early stages. He delivered a wonderful pass into the path of Atletico Madrid defender Robin Le Normand, who played it across to Yeremy Pino to net the opening goal of the match.

Soon after that moment, Spain had a glorious opportunity to make it 2-0 when Ferran Torres was fouled by Giorgi Mamardashvili inside the penalty area, but after stepping up himself, he saw his effort denied by the former Valencia goalkeeper.

Spain almost had a second eight minutes into the second when Pedro Porro’s curling effort struck the far post, with Mikel Oyarzabal also hitting the woodwork moments later. However, the latter was not to be denied, as he netted just beyond the hour mark in Elche. From a free-kick, the Real Sociedad man smashed home from the edge of the Georgia penalty area, which left Mamardashvili with absolutely no chance.

Ferran sought to become the third attacker of the evening to get on the scoresheet, but late on, he was once again denied by Mamardashvili, who had an impressive showing on his return to Spain despite conceding that penalty, which he subsequently made up for immediately after.

Spain take another step towards securing World Cup place

Spain were not as destructive as they have been in the past against Georgia, but it was never likely to be the case without Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Nevertheless, it was a strong performance from Luis de la Fuente’s side, who are back in action on Tuesday against Bulgaria, this time in Valladolid.