The Iraqi national team achieved an exciting 1-1 draw against European champions Spain in a friendly match held on Thursday in La Coruña, just one week before the start of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Spain entered the match with a significantly altered lineup, as coach Luis de la Fuente opted to rest most of his key players, including Rodri, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, and Nico Williams. In contrast, Iraq's coach, Australian Graham Arnold, aimed to test his players' readiness, making 11 changes throughout the match.
Match Highlights
Captain Ferran Torres opened the scoring early in the 16th minute following a counterattack, but the Iraqi team managed to equalize just 11 minutes later, thanks to a cross converted by Mirkhaz Doski that deceived goalkeeper Juan Garcia. Torres also had a chance to double the score before the end of the first half, but his shot hit the crossbar.
As the second half began, substitute Jesus Rodriguez surprised Iraq's defense with a powerful shot that went just wide of the post of substitute goalkeeper Jalal Hassan. The match saw the participation of several new faces from the Spanish side, with many players given the opportunity to make their debut, including Marc Bernal, Juan Martin, and Gonzalo Garcia.
Background & Context
Spain, which will compete in Group H alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay, is preparing to travel to its training camp in the United States, where it aims to secure its second world title. On the other hand, Iraq played its second friendly match in Spain after winning against Andorra 1-0 on May 29, before heading to Chicago to face Venezuela on the 9th of this month.
Iraq is participating in the World Cup finals for the second time, following its first appearance in 1986, where it is placed in Group G alongside France, Senegal, and Norway.
Impact & Consequences
In a related context, the French national team, one of the top contenders for the 2026 World Cup, suffered a surprising friendly loss to Ivory Coast 1-2, having opened the scoring through Manchester City player Ryan Cherki, but the Ivorian team turned the result around in the second half.
France will play a second friendly match against Northern Ireland before traveling to the United States for the World Cup, reflecting the pressures faced by major teams ahead of the tournament.
Regional Significance
These friendly matches highlight the importance of good preparation for Arab teams before participating in global tournaments. The strong performance of the Iraqi team boosts the hopes of Iraqi fans for a distinguished showing in the World Cup.
In conclusion, all eyes remain on the 2026 World Cup, as each team strives to achieve the best possible performance, contributing to enhancing sportsmanship and competition among Arab and global nations.