Madrid  - European champions Spain increased their lead at the top of World Cup qualifying Group 5 on Saturday, with a tight 1-0 defeat of Turkey in Madrid.

Spain won thanks to the first international goal of Gerard Pique - and thanks to several sharp saves from Iker Casillas, arguably the world's best goalkeeper at the moment.

Turkey dominated the first half, but the hosts improved after the interval and took control in midfield.

Spain are now unbeaten for a record 30 games, and Vicente del Bosque has won all seven of his matches since taking over from Luis Aragones after Euro 2008.

"This is a historic moment for the Spanish side," commented former Spain striker Emilio Butragueno on Television Espanola.

"We have to enjoy this moment," he added, "and hope that this team can become even better."

Del Bosque's team now has 15 points from five games and are are six points ahead of Bosnia, who moved up to second earlier on Saturday with a spectacular 4-2 away to Belgium.

Turkey are now third with eight points. They will have the chance to take revenge on the Spaniards in Wednesday's return game in Istanbul.

Fatih Terim's visitors made an ambitious start in the rainy Estadio Bernabeu and Casillas had to make early saves from Nihat Kahveci and Semih Senturk.

The slick Spanish midfield unit gradually took control and Fernando Torres forced a low save from Volkan Demirel just before half-time.

The only goal came on the hour, when a clever Xavi free-kick found Sergio Ramos at the far post. The ball rebounded off Ramos' leg and bounced across goal to Pique, who forced home the rebound.

Turkey looked tired towards the end, and Xabi Alonso first and then Ramos came close to increasing Spain's lead. (dpa)