Bulgaria are set to return to competitive action for the first time since failing in their bid to win promotion in the 2024-25 Nations League.
Ilian Iliev’s side collected nine points from six matches to finish in second place in Group C3, setting a promotion/relegation playoff tie against the Republic of Ireland.
Unfortunately for Bulgaria, they fell to 2-1 victories in both home and away legs, ensuring they will continue playing in League C when the Nations League returns in 2026.
They then warmed up for their upcoming World Cup qualifying campaign with underwhelming results in their two friendly outings in June, playing out a 2-2 home draw with Cyprus before falling to a 4-0 away defeat against Greece.
As the lowest-ranked side in their World Cup qualifying group, the Lions will be well aware that they have their work cut out to reach the finals for the first time since France 98.
Bulgaria will do their utmost to produce a shock in their first game against Spain since 2002, although their hopes of a positive result will be tempered by the fact that they have lost four of their previous five meetings (D1).
Spain are set to return to action for the first time since falling short in their bid to claim back-to-back Nations League titles.
La Roja saw off the Netherlands on penalties in the quarter-final, before they pulled off a 5-4 victory over France in the last-four to set up a final clash with Portugal.
However, Spain experienced disappointment in the final in Munich, giving up the lead on two occasions before losing 5-3 on penalties.
Spain will now be fully focused on the road to the 2026 World Cup, and they will be hoping that Thursday’s fixture is the start of their journey to lifting the coveted trophy for the second time.