Iraq Faces Spain in Friendly Match Ahead of 2026 World Cup

ACORUÑA, Spain — Iraq's national team faced Spain in a friendly match at Riazor Stadium on Monday as part of its preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Kickoff was scheduled for 10 p.m. local time. The match is part of Iraq's training program ahead of World Cup qualifying matches in Group 9, where the team will compete against France, Norway and Senegal. Coach Graham Arnold said the team views the game as a serious test rather than a routine friendly, noting that Spain's history and playing style make it an important challenge for Iraqi players. Spain currently ranks second in the global standings. After the Spain match, Iraq is scheduled to face Venezuela on June 9 in the United States as its final friendly before the World Cup. The tournament begins on June 11 across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Iraq is set to appear in the World Cup finals for the first time in many years.