Spain’s final warm-up before the 2026 FIFA World Cup did not go well as they drew 1-1 with Iraq in a match played in Spain.
Ferran Torres put Spain ahead in the 16th minute, but Iraq levelled in the 27th minute through Mechas Doski. His cross went into the net from a tight angle, giving Spain an unexpected equaliser against them.
Spain played without key wingers Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, who are both injured and trying to recover in time for the World Cup. Both players were part of Spain’s 2025 European Championship winning team but have had injury problems this season.
After the match, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said he was surprised by Iraq’s performance.
“We wanted a game with a strong physical component, something that helped the players adapt. No injuries, that’s important. Now we enter a new phase with more intensity and more players contributing.”
“They surprised me in a very positive way. We struggled in the first half to stop their progressions. They’re an interesting team with a lot of energy. They pushed us and made things complicated” he said.
