Spain has started the qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the best possible way: winning 3-0 against Bulgaria. The team led by Luis de la Fuente was superior from the very beginning, quickly taking the lead on the scoreboard and going into halftime with a very comfortable advantage.
The national goals were scored by Oyarzabal, Cucurella, and Mikel Merino, the latter assisted by Lamine Yamal, who was on the field from the start. He was one of the two Barcelona players who started for Spain, with Pedri being the other chosen by the national coach. Later, coming off the bench, Cubarsí and Olmo also played a role.
Singled out by Maldini
After securing the victory, Maldini, a renowned Spanish analyst, spoke. He highlighted how comfortable this match against Bulgaria was, but wanted to point out a small flaw.
For Maldini, the worst player for Spain was Nico Williams, who for the second consecutive summer has toyed with Barça over his signing. He was not good at all on the field, completely absent on the left wing and failing to show his usual level.
"The match was very comfortable. I really liked Spain in the first 45 minutes because they pressed high and created a lot of danger. I have to say that Lamine Yamal and Mikel Merino played two very good matches, but I have to point out that Nico Williams was not at his best, just to mention a flaw," Maldini said.
Goodbye to the chemistry between Nico Williams and Lamine?
Another anecdote from this match is how few times Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams could be seen together. The pair who were supposed to lead Spain's attack seem to have clearly separated after recent events.
The truth is that the Barcelona player did not take it well at all that Nico Williams once again toyed with Barça. He did not communicate his decision and was surprised when his contract renewal with Athletic Club became official. In fact, both were working together to try to secure his arrival at Spotify Camp Nou.
During the summer, it was common to see posts from Lamine fueling rumors about Nico Williams's arrival at Barcelona. His decision seems to have clearly taken its toll. Or maybe it was just a one-day thing...