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The friendly match between Spain and Iraq, part of their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saw an entertaining first half that ended in a 1-1 draw.

Spain took the lead in the 16th minute when Ferran Torres received a precise pass and fired an unstoppable shot into the bottom right corner of the net.

Iraq responded quickly, equalising in the 27th minute. Merchas Doski took control of the ball and unleashed a powerful long-range strike that flew into the top right corner, leaving Spanish goalkeeper Joan Garcia shaking his head in disbelief.

The match took place at Deportivo La Coruña’s home ground, Estadio Riazor, Spain. Below are the details for Indonesian viewers:

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

The match was broadcast live on iNews TV and available on international streaming platforms such as beIN Sports, Amazon Prime, or ViX, depending on local broadcast rights.

Team Analysis: Final Home Warm-Up

1. Spain (La Roja)

Under coach Luis de la Fuente, Spain entered the match as one of the top favourites to win the 2026 World Cup, following their European Championship success two years earlier. The match against Iraq served as their only home warm-up game before heading to Mexico for another friendly against Peru.

Spain were not at full strength, with young stars such as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams recovering from minor muscle injuries to stay fit for their group opener against Cape Verde. Coach De la Fuente used the opportunity to rotate his squad, giving valuable minutes to returning players like Mikel Merino.

2. Iraq (The Lions of Mesopotamia)

Under the guidance of coach Graham Arnold, Iraq made history by qualifying for their first World Cup since 1986. Their impressive campaign through the long AFC qualification rounds and their playoff victory over Bolivia demonstrated that the Lions of Mesopotamia are not to be underestimated.

Facing the world’s second-ranked team, Iraq viewed this encounter as an ideal test of both mental strength and tactical discipline. Their main focus was to strengthen the back line and rely on quick counterattacks to neutralise Spain’s modern tiki-taka style.

Predicted Score: Spain vs Iraq

Although Spain rotated their lineup and rested several key players, their squad depth remained exceptional. With Rodri and Pedri orchestrating play in midfield, Spain were expected to dominate possession from the start.

Iraq were likely to put up a solid fight in the first half, but Spain’s superior finishing quality was expected to make the difference in the later stages.

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

Key Player Analysis

The outcome of the match heavily depended on the performance of several key figures from both sides:

1. Spain: Tempo Controllers & Attack Creators

Rodri (Midfield): If selected from the start, the Manchester City midfielder was vital in dictating Spain’s rhythm, breaking Iraq’s counterattacks before they crossed midfield, and ensuring smooth ball circulation.

Dani Olmo (Forward/Attacking Midfielder): With speedy wingers like Yamal absent, Olmo’s creativity in breaking through Iraq’s low defensive block was crucial. His ability to operate between the lines provided opportunities for strikers such as Oyarzabal.

2. Iraq: Defensive Wall & Counterplay Weapon

Zidane Iqbal (Midfield): The former Manchester United academy graduate carried the heavy responsibility of resisting Spain’s midfield pressure. His composure under intense pressing was key to Iraq’s ability to transition into attack.

Aymen Hussein (Striker): The tall Iraqi forward was the focal point during counterattacks and set-pieces. If Spanish defenders lost focus in aerial duels, Hussein’s efficiency could easily turn into a scoring threat.

(Tribunkalteng)