Spain 1-1 Iraq: the forgettable friendly that nobody will remember (and why that's good news)
- Spain drew 1-1 with Iraq in a flat friendly where the highlight was that no one got injured, serving only to distribute minutes before the World Cup
- Ferran Torres scored a brilliant goal in the 16th minute that ties him with Oyarzabal as Spain's ninth all-time top scorer, but Doski equalized for Iraq shortly after
- De la Fuente made numerous changes with 9 of the 11 starters not traveling to the World Cup, demonstrating he has enough depth and that the real test will be on June 15 against Cape Verde
There are friendlies that get you dreaming and friendlies that get you packing your bags. The one at Riazor was the latter. Spain drew 1-1 with Iraq in their home farewell before the World Cup, in a match so flat that the most thrilling moment was realising nobody got injured.
Doski levelled for Iraq in the 27th with a long-range left-footer that caught Joan García off guard, and the second half was a parade of substitutions that killed the rhythm like an ad break in the 89th minute of a final. De la Fuente changed basically everyone: Eric, Sergio Gómez, Yéremy Pino, Jesús Rodríguez, Gonzalo, Javi Rodríguez and Leo Román all came on. It was a match to hand out minutes and get everyone to the plane in one piece.
Because here's what matters: the squad flies out from Santiago to the United States today. Riazor was the last dress rehearsal with the crowd; the real deal kicks off on 15 June against Cape Verde. If we're still talking about draws on the 16th, then yeah, bring out the torches. For now, stay calm and keep packing.
Frequently asked questions
What was the result of Spain vs Iraq at Riazor?
Spain drew 1-1 with Iraq in the friendly match played at Riazor on 4 June 2026. Ferran Torres scored for Spain and Doski equalised for Iraq.
Who scored in the Spain-Iraq match?
Ferran Torres put Spain ahead in the 16th minute with a brilliant goal after running half the length of the pitch. Doski equalised for Iraq in the 27th minute with a long-range effort.
When does Spain debut at the 2026 World Cup?
Spain make their debut on 15 June 2026 against Cape Verde in Atlanta, in Group H of the World Cup.
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