Date: 04/09/25
Kick-off time: 19:45
Venue: Vasil Levski National Stadium, Sofia

World Cup qualifiers are back on the menu, and this one has a heavyweight feel to it. Spain head to Sofia to face Bulgaria, and let’s be honest, the two nations are walking into this with very different vibes.

Bulgaria just suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Greece in a friendly, and their form has been patchy at best. Spain, on the other hand, are unbeaten in five and carry that swagger we’re used to seeing from them. The question is—are we in for another Spanish masterclass, or could Bulgaria spring a surprise? Let’s dive in.

Bulgaria vs Spain Team News

Bulgaria

Bulgaria come into this game needing a reset. Their defensive record tells the story: 11 goals conceded in their last six games. Blunders at the back have cost them, and against a side like Spain, you can’t afford slip-ups.

Coach Ilian Iliev will likely stick with a compact setup, hoping to frustrate Spain and pinch something on the counter. The attack will probably revolve around Kiril Despodov’s pace, while Petar Vitanov is expected to anchor the midfield.

Injury-wise, Bulgaria don’t have major absentees, but their biggest concern is form, not fitness.

Spain

Spain’s camp looks more upbeat, though not spotless. Their Nations League clash with Portugal ended 2-2 before they fell in a penalty shootout, and while they dominated the ball, defensive gaps were obvious again.

Luis de la Fuente has a wealth of options. Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal both scored against Portugal, and both should start here. Expect Rodri to marshal midfield, while Dani Olmo and Álvaro Morata add cutting edge in attack.

Spain’s only worry is how often they’ve been conceding goals—14 in their last six. That won’t sit well with their fans, even if the team keeps winning.

Likely Lineups

Bulgaria: Naumov; Turitsov, Antov, Nedyalkov, Delev; Vitanov, Karabelyov; Despodov, Kostadinov, Iliev; Delev

Spain: Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Grimaldo; Rodri, Zubimendi, Pedri; Oyarzabal, Morata, Olmo

Bulgaria vs Spain Betting Tips

I think this one has goals written all over it. Spain have attacking threats everywhere you look, and Bulgaria’s backline has been leaking. That combination usually spells trouble.

• Spain to win & over 2.5 goals feels like the banker.
• Álvaro Morata anytime scorer – the captain loves these qualifiers and has been reliable in front of goal.
• Both teams to score – No. Spain’s defense isn’t perfect, but Bulgaria’s attack doesn’t have much bite against top opposition.

Bulgaria vs Spain Match Prediction

Spain are going to control the tempo, boss possession, and wait for their chances. Bulgaria will sit deep, but holding out for 90 minutes against this Spain side? That’s a tall order.

If Bulgaria do get forward, it’ll be rare and probably through Despodov on the break. But over the course of the match, Spain’s technical superiority should tell.

Match Prediction: Spain to win. Bet with bet365.

Bulgaria vs Spain Correct Score Tips & Prediction

I’m leaning towards a clean, professional win for Spain. Bulgaria will dig in, but once the first goal goes in, the floodgates could open.

Correct Score Prediction: Bulgaria 0-3 Spain. Bet with bet365.

Bulgaria vs Spain Over & Under Goals Betting Tips

The stats point one way: goals. Spain have been involved in high-scoring games lately, while Bulgaria have conceded freely. Over 2.5 is safe, but if you want a juicier angle, over 3.5 is worth a punt.

Over/Under Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals. Bet with bet365.

Bulgaria vs Spain Bet Builder Tip

Here’s a combo I like for this one:

• Spain to win
• Over 2.5 goals
• Álvaro Morata anytime scorer
• Both teams to score – No

That’s your classic “Spain do the business” ticket.

Bet Builder Tip: Spain to Win, Over 2.5 Goals, Álvaro Morata anytime scorer,and Both teams to score – No. Bet with bet365.

Key Stats

• Bulgaria have conceded 11 goals in their last six games.
• Spain are unbeaten in their last five matches.
• Spain have scored in each of their last 10 competitive games.
• Bulgaria have failed to score in 3 of their last 5 fixtures.

Visit our football previews & predictions page for more betting tips on upcoming matches.

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