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Merino Scores Historic Hat-Trick for Spain Against Turkey

The hero of Sunday’s football season was undoubtedly Arsenal and Spain star Mikel Merino.

The attacking midfielder started his country’s match against Turkey in Konya in the second round of 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Within 21 minutes, Merino, known for his attacking prowess, scored Spain’s first goal after a delightful tiki-taka effort by Luis de la Fuente’s side.


In the final minute of the first half, Merino scored his second goal, and Spain’s third of the match.

Merino completed his historic hat-trick with a stunning left-footed shot from outside the penalty area that beat goalkeeper Cakir.

Merino is only the second player in the last 15 years to score a hat-trick for Spain, following Isco in 2019 against Argentina.

Meanwhile, Merinho is the highest-scoring midfielder at international level in 2025, with five goals.

Spain won 6-0, topping the group with six points and moving closer to securing direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.