Merino Hat-Trick Inspires Spain to Crushing 6-0 win over Turkey

Spain team celebrating Pedri's goal

Mikel Merino fired a stunning hat-trick as Spain dismantled Turkey in Konya to continue their perfect start to World Cup qualifying.

The Arsenal midfielder struck twice in the first half before completing his treble in style on 57 minutes, curling home from over 20 yards after being teed up by 18-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal.

Merino, 29, has been in scintillating form in 2025, scoring six goals in as many games for La Roja, a remarkable turnaround after managing just two in his first 31 international appearances.

Spain’s dominance didn’t end there. Pedri bagged a brace, while his Barcelona teammate Ferran Torres added another, rounding off a night of attacking brilliance. Real Sociedad’s Mikel Oyarzabal was the creative spark, laying on three assists including both of Merino’s first-half goals.

The emphatic victory leaves Spain top of Group E with two wins from two, while Turkey and Georgia sit level on three points apiece.