Iraq Forces a Draw with Spain in Friendly Match

The Iraqi national team achieved a significant moral result on Thursday evening at the Riazor Stadium in La Coruña, after drawing 1-1 against Spain in the final stop of their European camp before heading to the United States in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.

From the start, the Spanish team imposed their well-known style of possession and short passing, successfully controlling the course of the match.

Meanwhile, the Iraqi team entered the game with a clear plan, relying on tight defensive organization and structured retreat to their half, while depending on quick transitions whenever possible to move the ball forward.

The continuous Spanish pressure resulted in a goal in the 17th minute by Ferran Torres. This goal did not disrupt the Lions of Mesopotamia's plans, as the team responded quickly and in an organized manner.

In the 29th minute, Mirkhas Doski managed to equalize for Iraq, giving the team a significant moral boost and bringing them back strongly into the match. The Iraqi goal came as a result of the players' adherence to the defensive plan and exploiting one of the few opportunities available in front of the Spanish goal.

The first half ended with a positive 1-1 draw, reflecting Iraq's commitment to their plan and patience against the opponent's clear technical superiority.

As the second half began, Luis de la Fuente made several changes to his team to test as many players as possible and increase readiness before the World Cup competitions.

Iraq, on their part, made similar adjustments, with Arnold giving a chance to several players who did not start in the first half, to assess their levels in a high-caliber confrontation.

The match scenario continued as it was in the first half, with clear superiority for Spain in possession and control of the ball, but the Iraqi team succeeded in matching the Matadors in many periods of the match.

The Lions of Mesopotamia showed defensive solidity and high tactical discipline, not allowing the Spanish team to convert their superiority into additional goals. On the other hand, Iraq's counterattacks posed limited danger but confirmed that the team is capable of threatening any defense when space is available.

With this result, the Iraqi team concludes their camp in Spain with a positive outcome, a win over Andorra with a goal by Ali Youssef, and a draw against Spain with a goal by Mirkhas Doski. The results indicate that the team is on the right track physically and tactically before leaving Spanish soil.