Spain was unable to secure a victory in their latest World Cup preparation match, drawing 1-1 with Iraq in La Coruña. Despite entering the game as one of the favorites for the upcoming tournament, the home side could not turn an early lead into a win.
With attacking duo Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams absent, Spain still made a strong start. Ferran Torres opened the scoring in the 16th minute, putting Luis de la Fuente’s team in front and giving the hosts control during the early stages of the contest.
The advantage, however, did not last until the interval as Iraq found a way back into the match before halftime.
Iraq respond before the break
The visitors restored parity through Merchas Doski, whose left-footed effort from outside the penalty area beat goalkeeper Joan Garcia shortly before the half-hour mark.
That strike proved decisive in the final outcome, as neither side managed to add another goal during the remainder of the encounter. Iraq held firm to secure a respectable result away from home against one of the leading contenders for the World Cup.
The draw prevented Spain from building additional momentum ahead of the tournament, although the match still provided valuable preparation for both teams.
De la Fuente provides fitness update ahead of tournament
After the game, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expressed confidence that Lamine Yamal would be available for the team’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde in Atlanta on 15 June.
The manager also rotated several players who had recently been involved in the Champions League final. David Raya, Martin Zubimendi, and Fabián Ruiz were given a rest, while Mikel Merino, recently back from injury, featured as a substitute.
Spain will complete its pre-World Cup schedule with a match against Peru in Mexico on Monday. Iraq, meanwhile, will begin its World Cup campaign against Norway in Massachusetts on 16 June.
