Türkiye beat Bulgaria 2–0 to secure World Cup playoff place
On Saturday, Türkiye secured a spot in the playoffs for next year's World Cup finals by defeating Bulgaria 2-0. The win in the World Cup qualifier confirmed their second-place finish in Group E.
- Sports
- Reuters
- Published Date: 10:30 | 15 November 2025
Türkiye beat Bulgaria 2-0 in a World Cup qualifier on Saturday to confirm second place in Group E and a spot in the playoffs for next year's finals.
Captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu put Türkiye ahead in the 18th minute from the penalty spot after a handball. The hosts doubled their lead in the 83rd minute when Bulgarian defender Chernev turned the ball into his own net attempting to clear a low cross.
Türkiye dominated possession and territory, and rarely looked troubled by Bulgaria who remained bottom of the group without a point.
Türkiye moved to 12 points from five matches, keeping them in second place three points behind leaders Spain who they play in their final qualifier on Tuesday.