Bulgaria vs Spain Prediction, Preview & Betting Tips | World Cup Qualifier 2026

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Ben Beard

Co-founder of Tipman and a well-known tipster with over a decade of profitable tracked results. Featured on the Racing Post NAPs table, Ben brings proven expertise and sharp racing insight.

Published Date: September 3, 2025 3:32 PM

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🇧🇬 Bulgaria vs 🇪🇸 Spain Prediction, Preview & Betting Tips | World Cup Qualifier 2026

Match Preview ⚽

Bulgaria welcome Spain to the Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia on Thursday evening as the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers continue. The hosts are hoping for a famous upset, while Spain arrive full of confidence after lifting the 2024 European Championship and embarking on an unbeaten run since.

Kick-off is set for 19:45 UK time (20:45 CET), with a sell-out crowd expected to generate a fiery atmosphere. Spain begin their qualifying campaign as overwhelming favourites, while Bulgaria must raise their game significantly to trouble the reigning European champions.

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Form Guides

Bulgaria Form Guide 📉

Bulgaria have endured a tough run in recent international campaigns, failing to qualify for Euro 2024 and finishing near the bottom of their Nations League group. They’ve recorded just two wins from their last eleven World Cup qualifiers, a poor return that underlines their struggles at this level.

Their defence has been leaky, conceding 15 goals in their last six competitive fixtures, but coach Ilian Iliev insists his side will play with aggression and organisation, hoping to feed off the energy of a passionate Sofia crowd.

Spain Form Guide ⭐

Spain arrive in outstanding shape, having lifted Euro 2024 and reached the Nations League final. Under Luis de la Fuente, La Roja blend youthful energy with world-class experience, making them one of the most dangerous sides in international football.

The return of Rodri and Dani Carvajal from long-term injuries is a huge boost, while teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal is tipped to spearhead the attack. Spain have won four of their last five meetings with Bulgaria and carry plenty of attacking firepower into this clash.

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Head-to-Head Record

Spain have won four of the last five meetings with Bulgaria.
Bulgaria’s last victory came back in 2002.
Their most famous clash saw Spain win 6-1 at the 1998 World Cup.
Spain have scored 13 goals in their last four games against Bulgaria.

Team News & Predicted Line-Ups 📋

Bulgaria

Coach Ilian Iliev is expected to set his side up in a compact 4-2-3-1, relying on counter-attacks and set pieces. Captain Kiril Despodov remains their key attacking outlet, while Werder Bremen’s Ilia Gruev provides defensive steel in midfield.

Predicted XI: Mihaylov; Turitsov, Antov, Nedyalkov, Bozhikov; Gruev, Malinov; Delev, Kostadinov, Despodov; Delev

Spain

Luis de la Fuente can afford to rotate but still fields an elite squad. All eyes will be on Lamine Yamal, while Rodri returns to anchor midfield and Carvajal slots back into defence.

Predicted XI: Unai Simón; Carvajal, Laporte, Le Normand, Grimaldo; Rodri, Pedri, Aleix García; Yamal, Oyarzabal, Torres

Key Battles ⚔️

Lamine Yamal vs Bulgaria’s defence – Can the teenage sensation be stopped?
Rodri vs Gruev – Spain’s controller against Bulgaria’s destroyer.
Despodov on the break – Bulgaria’s captain must take any chances that come his way.

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⭐ TipMan Smart Tip ⭐

Spain to Win & Over 2.5 Goals ✅

Spain should dominate proceedings in Sofia, and their frontline has more than enough quality to clear the 2.5 goals line. Bulgaria might offer resistance early on, but the gulf in class is significant. This combined market offers better value than a straight Spain win and stands out as the strongest betting angle.

Alternative Value Picks 🎯

Anytime Scorer: Lamine Yamal – the prodigy looks ready to make his mark.
Bet Builder: Yamal to score, Oyarzabal to score, Gruev to be booked – around 11/1.

No tips available right now.

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TipMan’s Final Verdict 🏆

Spain should have far too much for Bulgaria, and this looks like the perfect platform to start their qualifying campaign in style. Expect a commanding display with goals on the cards.

Predicted Scoreline: Bulgaria 1–4 Spain
Best Bet: ⭐ Spain to Win & Over 2.5 Goals ⭐

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Where to Watch Bulgaria vs Spain 📺

UK fans can watch the game live on Viaplay Sports, with coverage starting just before kick-off at 19:45. Across Europe, the match will be broadcast by regional TV rights holders, ensuring full coverage of this high-profile World Cup 2026 qualifier.

For punters, leading online bookmakers will provide in-play live streaming for registered users, offering the chance to bet and watch simultaneously. Mobile and tablet users can also follow via official sports apps, with live stats, goal alerts, and commentary updates throughout the night.

Highlights will be shown later on free-to-air sports channels and official federation outlets, while extended post-match analysis will be available across major football platforms.

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Stats to Know – Bulgaria vs Spain 📊

Spain have won four of the last five meetings between the sides.
Bulgaria have only two wins from their last eleven World Cup qualifiers.
Spain have scored 13 goals across their last four clashes with Bulgaria.
Bulgaria have conceded 15 goals in their last six competitive fixtures.
Spain have scored 10 goals in their last three matches.
Bulgaria have scored in five of their last six home qualifiers despite poor results overall.
Lamine Yamal has scored or assisted in four of his last six international appearances.

FAQs – Bulgaria vs Spain ❓

Is Bulgaria vs Spain on TV in the UK?
Yes. The match will be broadcast live on Viaplay Sports.

Can I stream Bulgaria vs Spain online?
Yes. Selected bookmakers will offer live in-play streaming for registered users, and Viaplay Sports subscribers can also stream on mobile and smart devices.

What time does Bulgaria vs Spain kick off?
The game kicks off at 19:45 UK time (20:45 CET) on Thursday, 4 September 2025.

Where is the match being played?
The fixture takes place at the Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia, Bulgaria, a 44,000-capacity ground renowned for its electric atmosphere.

Are highlights available?
Yes. Highlights will be available later in the evening on free-to-air TV, official football apps, and post-match roundups.

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