Spain is gearing up for a high‑profile friendly against Iraq on Thursday, a match that pits the world’s second‑ranked side against a team making its first World Cup appearance in nearly four decades.
The Spanish side arrives in fine form, having avoided defeat for more than two years, yet their recent tournament history shows a puzzling trend: despite a 2010 championship, they have not progressed beyond the round of 16 in any subsequent World Cup.
Iraq’s Unexpected Surge
Iraq, meanwhile, has been on a surprising upward trajectory, dropping both of its 2026 qualifiers, the latest a 1‑0 win over Andorra, and boasting a perfect record in the current campaign.
Key Absences for La Roja
Spain will be without several of its brightest talents, including teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, winger Nico Williams and midfielder Mikel Merino, all of whom are sidelined for the encounter.
The last meeting between the two nations ended with a solitary goal from Spain, a 1‑0 result that adds a modest edge to the upcoming fixture, though the stakes extend far beyond a simple head‑to‑head record.