Merino hat-trick powers Spain to 6-0 rout of Turkey

KONYA, Turkey: Mikel Merino delivered a masterclass with a hat-trick as Spain thrashed hosts Turkey 6-0 in their World Cup qualifier on Sunday, tightening their grip on Group E.

The European champions dominated from start to finish, leaving Turkey helpless against their relentless pace and precision. Pedri set the tone early, scoring in the sixth minute before Merino doubled the lead midway through the first half. The Real Sociedad midfielder struck again in stoppage time to hand Spain a commanding 3-0 cushion at the break.

Turkey’s misery deepened after the restart, with Ferran Torres punishing a failed corner to make it four. Merino then completed his hat-trick with a spectacular left-footed strike from distance, before Spain added a sixth to cap a flawless display.

With six points from two games, Spain lead Group E ahead of Turkey and Georgia, who both sit on three after Georgia’s 3-0 win over Bulgaria earlier in the day.