Top News

The international friendly between Spain and Iraq is being broadcast live on iNews TV as both teams prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Below is the confirmed starting XI for both sides.

This fixture serves as a crucial warm-up ahead of the 2026 World Cup finals. European champions Spain are set to host the resilient Asian side Iraq in an international test match.

Spain Starting XI

13 J. Garcia (G)
12 P. Porro
16 J. Martin
14 A. Laporte
3 A. Grimaldo
9 Gavi
18 M. Bernal
7 F. Torres (C)
10 D. Olmo
15 A. Baena
26 B. Iglesias

Iraq Starting XI

A. Basil (G)
3 H. Ali
4 Z. Tahseen
5 A. Hashem
23 M. Doski
16 A. Al Ammari
24 Z. Ismaeel
21 M. Farji
8 I. Bayesh (C)
17 A. Jasim
9 A. Al Hamadi

This encounter represents a significant test for both nations before they head to North America.

For football fans in Indonesia, here’s the full preview, including team analysis, head-to-head record, and score predictions for Spain vs Iraq.

Match Schedule, Venue, and Live Broadcast
The game will be played at Deportivo La Coruna’s home ground, Estadio Riazor, in A Coruna, Spain. The schedule according to Indonesian time zones is as follows:

Date: Friday, 5 June 2026
Kick-off: 02:00 WIB / 03:00 WITA
Venue: Estadio Riazor, A Coruna, Spain

The match can be watched live via iNews TV and official international sports streaming platforms (such as beIN Sports, Amazon Prime, or ViX, depending on regional broadcast rights).

Team Review: Final Home Friendly

1. Spain (La Roja)

Under coach Luis de la Fuente, Spain enter this match as one of the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup following their triumph at the European Championship two years ago. The fixture against Iraq is their only home friendly before heading to Mexico for another warm-up against Peru.

However, Spain are not expected to field their full-strength lineup. Young stars like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are reportedly recovering from minor muscle injuries and are being rested to be fully fit for their group opener against Cape Verde. De la Fuente is likely to rotate his squad and give minutes to players returning from injury, such as Mikel Merino.

2. Iraq (The Lions of Mesopotamia)

Guided by coach Graham Arnold, Iraq have made history by qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1986.

Their remarkable run through the AFC qualifiers and victory over Bolivia in the inter-confederation playoff has proven that the Lions of Mesopotamia are not to be underestimated.

Facing world number two Spain provides an excellent tactical and psychological test for Iraq. Their main objective will be to strengthen their defensive organization and rely on quick counter-attacks to neutralize Spain’s modern tiki-taka style.

Spain vs Iraq Score Prediction

Even with rotations and key players being rested, Spain’s squad depth remains exceptional. The midfield creativity led by Rodri and Pedri is expected to dominate possession from the start.

Iraq are likely to put up a resolute fight in the first half, but Spain’s superior finishing ability should make the difference after the break.

Predictions:
AsiaBookie & Analysts: Spain 3-0 Iraq
Editorial Prediction: Spain to win without conceding (Win to Nil).

Key Player Analysis

The outcome of this match will largely depend on the performance of the following key players in crucial areas:

Spain: Tempo Control & Attacking Dynamics

Rodri (Midfield): If he starts, the Manchester United anchor will be the heartbeat of La Roja’s play. His role is vital in breaking up Iraq’s counter-attacks and maintaining the flow of possession.

Dani Olmo (Forward/Attacking Midfielder): With the absence of pacey wingers like Yamal, Olmo’s creativity in breaking down Iraq’s low-block defence becomes crucial. His ability to operate in tight spaces will benefit finishers such as Oyarzabal.

Iraq: Defensive Wall & Counter Weapon

Zidane Iqbal (Midfield): The former Manchester United academy product carries the responsibility of resisting Spain’s midfield pressure. His composure under pressing will be key to launching Iraq’s attacks.

Aymen Hussein (Striker): The tall forward will be Iraq’s main target during counter-attacks and set-piece situations. If Spain’s defenders lose focus in aerial duels, Hussein’s efficiency could punish them.

Score Link