The Daily Star Ireland
Spain and Georgia face off at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero in Elche on October 11, 2025, in a key World Championship 2026 qualifier that could define the trajectory of Group B. Spain, still riding the momentum of their Euro 2024 triumph, enter the clash in dominant form, while Georgia arrive as dangerous underdogs with a knack for frustrating stronger sides.
Match Preview
Luis de la Fuente’s Spain have been near unstoppable in recent qualifiers, dismantling Türkiye 6–0 and Bulgaria 3–0 with clinical precision. The reigning European champions are blending generational talent with experience, producing a dynamic and balanced squad. Midfield maestro Rodri continues to dictate tempo alongside Pedri, while Ferran Torres and Mikel Oyarzabal are expected to lead the front line. With Álvaro Morata left out of the October squad, Jesús Rodríguez and Jorge de Frutos step into attacking roles, bringing fresh energy to the setup.
De la Fuente’s tactical evolution of Spain’s style has been notable — maintaining possession-based play while adding verticality and urgency. The result is a side capable of controlling games and transitioning swiftly when opportunities arise. At home, Spain have been exceptional, winning 12 of their last 18 fixtures on Spanish soil and keeping eight clean sheets during that run.
Georgia, under French coach Willy Sagnol, have proven they are no pushovers. Their 2–0 win over Bulgaria and narrow losses to higher-ranked teams underline a growing maturity in their approach. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the Napoli star, remains their creative heartbeat, often tasked with carrying the attack through explosive dribbles and incisive runs. With a compact defensive setup and quick counterattacks, Georgia will look to exploit any Spanish overcommitment in the final third.
Team Form & Recent Results
Spain (Last 5 Matches): W W W L W
Georgia (Last 5 Matches): W L D L W
Spain’s consistency has been remarkable, scoring 14 goals in their last five games while conceding just two. Georgia, on the other hand, remain unpredictable — solid at home but vulnerable on the road, having collected only one point from their last 17 away fixtures in competitive play.
Head-to-Head Record
Spain have dominated this fixture historically, winning five of their last six meetings against Georgia. Their most recent encounter ended in a 4–0 rout in Tbilisi, with Kvaratskhelia struggling to influence the game under heavy marking. Georgia’s lone win came in a 1–0 friendly victory in 2016, but they’ve failed to take points off Spain in competitive fixtures.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
Spain Predicted XI: Unai Simón; Carvajal, Laporte, Le Normand, Grimaldo; Rodri, Pedri; Torres, Oyarzabal, De Frutos; Jesús Rodríguez
Georgia Predicted XI: Mamardashvili; Kakabadze, Kashia, Dvali, Kverkvelia; Kvekveskiri, Kochorashvili; Davitashvili, Kvaratskhelia, Chakvetadze; Mikautadze
Injuries:
- Spain: Lamine Yamal (out), Nico Williams (out), Gavi (out long-term)
- Georgia: None reported
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Spain’s strength lies in their midfield orchestration. Rodri’s control allows Pedri and Oyarzabal to advance into pockets of space, while Ferran Torres stretches defenses with width and pace. Expect overlapping full-backs like Carvajal and Grimaldo to create overloads on the wings, forcing Georgia’s backline deeper.
Georgia’s best hope is their counterattack, built around the explosive Kvaratskhelia. His ability to draw fouls and open up spaces could be crucial, especially if Spain commit numbers forward. However, Georgia’s backline — led by veteran Guram Kashia — will need to maintain near-perfect organization to withstand Spain’s relentless passing and movement.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- Match Winner: Spain (1.20) | Draw (6.00) | Georgia (10.50)
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over (1.70) | Under (2.05)
- Both Teams to Score: Yes (2.35) | No (1.55)
Betting Insights:
- Spain have kept a clean sheet in 11 of their last 15 home qualifiers.
- Georgia have scored just three goals in their last seven away games.
- Four of the last five meetings between these nations have seen over 2.5 goals.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Venue: Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero, Elche
Date: October 11, 2025
Kickoff Time: 20:45 local time (CEST)
Broadcast: RTVE (Spain), GPB (Georgia), UEFA.tv
Prediction: Spain vs Georgia, World Championship 2026 Qualifiers
Spain’s firepower, tactical balance, and home advantage make them clear favorites. Georgia’s discipline and counterpunching threat may cause a few scares, but De la Fuente’s side has too much control in midfield and efficiency in attack. Expect the hosts to dominate possession, create numerous chances, and secure a comfortable win to strengthen their qualification bid.
- Final Prediction: Spain 3–0 Georgia
- Best Bet: Spain to Win to Nil
- Alternative Value: Over 2.5 Total Goals
