In a commanding performance at the Estadio Metropolitano in Madrid, Marc Cucurella delivered a standout display in Spain's 3-0 win over Bulgaria, scoring a brilliant goal in Spain's 3-0 victory over Bulgaria in their 2026 World Cup qualifying opener
The Chelsea left-back showcased his defensive solidity and attacking prowess, helping Luis de la Fuente’s La Roja start their Group E campaign on a high note.
Cucurella’s Defensive Resilience and Early Involvement
From the kick-off, Marc Cucurella was instrumental in Spain’s backline. Bulgaria sought to capitalize on quick counters, but the 27-year-old was unyielding. Early in the game, Cucurella had a shot blocked during Spain's initial pressure, demonstrating his willingness to contribute offensively from the left flank.
His anticipation and positioning thwarted several Bulgarian advances, with fans and analysts praising his all-around game. Cucurella’s performance earned accolades from coach Luis de la Fuente, who called him "underappreciated" and highlighted his versatility.
Cucurella’s highlight-reel moment came in the 30th minute when he scored Spain’s second goal with a thumping finish inside the box. The goal followed a cleared cross from Lamine Yamal, with Cucurella latching onto the loose ball and firing it past the Bulgarian goalkeeper.
🚨🚨| GOAL: MARC CUCURELLA DOUBLES THE LEAD!!
— Goals Side (@goalsside) September 4, 2025
Bulgaria 0-2 Spainpic.twitter.com/f6JhS40qSJ
Anticipating the Champions League Clash with Lamine Yamal
Shifting focus to club football, Cucurella is preparing for Chelsea’s Champions League encounter against Barcelona in November 2025. Reflecting on facing Barcelona’s prodigy Lamine Yamal, whose assists were pivotal in the Bulgaria match, Cucurella shared his thoughts on their shared La Masia roots.
Cucurella, who would have been at Barcelona’s academy at the same time as a younger Yamal was just joining the club, described his compatriot as “the hardest winger to stop” in world football via SI.com. He added:
“He’s a very skilled player; you never know what he’s going to do to you,” Cucurella lamented. “It’ll be a tough match, but I’ll try to make things as difficult as possible for him.” Not too difficult, though.
“I can’t injure him,” Cucurella added with a grin, “because otherwise I can’t come back to the national team.”
Conclusion
Marc Cucurella’s stunning goal and commanding performance propelled Spain to a convincing 3-0 win over Bulgaria, setting a positive tone for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
As he returns to Chelsea, his international exploits highlight his value ahead of high-stakes clashes like the one against Barcelona. Stay tuned for more updates on Cucurella’s journey in club and international football.
