I expect Iraq to place a large focus on defending here and try to avoid some potentially heavy loss ahead of the WC 2026. Spain to win & under 3.5 goals is my top prediction.
Key Stats
- Spain have won 6 of their last 8 matches.
- Spain have seen under 3.5 goals in their last 2 matches.
- Iraq have seen under 3.5 goals in their last 15 matches.
Just One Previous Meeting
These two sides locked horns once in the Confederations Cup in 2009.
Final Test for La Roja
Spain had a great run in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers, topping Group E with five victories and one draw to finish ahead of Turkey, Georgia and Bulgaria with a 21-2 difference.
The Red Fury had two appearances in 2026 so far, starting with a commanding 3-0 victory against Serbia in a friendly clash. Mikel Oyarzabal netted a brace in the first half, Victor Munoz finishing the job later.
They had 2.50-0.15 expected goals, 61% possession and 25-4 shots in the second match against Egypt but still the clash ended in a goalless draw.
Iraq Enter the WC 2026 as Underdogs
Iraq have also qualified for the upcoming World Cup 2026, which is going to be their second appearance on the final tournament.
They had to go through the intercontinental playoffs, beating Bolivia 2-1 on a neutral venue in Monterrey in late March. Goalkeeper Ahmed Basil played a huge role here, making five saves.
Graham Arnold’s side played one international friendly since, beating Andorra 1-0 where Ali Yousif scored the only goal in the 20th minute.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Spain (4-3-3) Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Marc Pubill, Pau Cubarsi, Marc Cucurella; Pablo Gavi, Rodrigo Hernandez, Pedro Gonzalez; Yeremy Pino, Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres
The home side have to navigate this fixture without wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams due to their respective fitness concerns. All players who participate in the UCL finals are also likely to start on bench.
The home side have to navigate this fixture without wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams due to their respective fitness concerns. All players who participate in the UCL finals are also likely to start on bench.
Iraq (4-4-2) Jalal Hassan; Hussein Ali, Zaid Tahseen, Akam Hashim, Merchas Doski; Youssef Amyn, Amir Al-Ammari, Aimar Sher, Ibrahim Bayesh; Ali Al-Hamadi, Aymen Hussein
Goalkeeper Jalal Hassan has the most appearances for the national team on this roster (100).
Goalkeeper Jalal Hassan has the most appearances for the national team on this roster (100).