Mikel Merino scored a magnificent hat-trick as Spain thrashed Turkey 6-0 in a World Cup qualifier on Sunday, September 7, 2025.
The Arsenal midfielder’s hat-trick was the first of his professional career and a highlight of the match held at the Medaş Konya Büyükşehir Stadyumu in Konya, which saw an attendance of 32,059.
Merino’s third goal, scored in the 57th minute, was a curled shot from over 20 yards out after receiving a pass from Lamine Yamal.
This brings his goal tally for Spain to six goals in six games in 2025, a stark contrast to his previous record of two goals in 31 caps.
Spain’s other goals came from Pedri, who scored twice, and his Barcelona teammate Ferran Torres. Mikel Oyarzabal was a key playmaker, assisting three goals, including both of Merino’s first-half strikes.
The victory means Spain have now won their first two World Cup qualifiers in Group E. Turkey and Georgia are tied on three points each in the group standings.
