Pre-World Cup 2026 friendlies: Spain-Iraq, likely lineups

On Thursday evening at 9 p.m., Riazor Stadium in La Coruña is preparing to host Spain’s first friendly test on its path to the 2026 World Cup. Luis de la Fuente’s selection, strengthened by its status as reigning European champions, takes the field with the favor of prediction and the ambition to go all the way to the rainbow event. Facing them will be Iraq, another national team qualified at the end of a very long road culminating with victory in the decisive play-off against Bolivia. It promises to be an important test for Roja to test the physical condition of individuals and begin to improve tactical mechanisms ahead of the debut in North America.

De la Fuente chooses a very proactive team, despite various absences. In front of Unai Simón will act a defensive line led by the experience of Laporte and the youth of Cubarsí in the center, with Pedro Porro and Cucurella on the side lanes. The keys to the midfield will be entrusted to Rodri at the helm, supported by Gavi and Pedri as midfielders. Up front, the offensive trident will see Oyarzabal act as a central reference, with Yeremy Pino and Ferran Torres wide on the flanks.

Graham responds with a more covered and solid set-up. Talib between the posts, protected by central pair Hashem-Ali and full-backs Tahseen and Doski. The thick midfield of four will rely on the solidity of Al-Ammari and Sher in the middle of the field, while Amyn and Iqbal on the outside lanes. In attack, the weight of the department will be all on the shoulders of the tandem composed of Al-Hamadi and Aymen Hussein.

Probable formations

Spain (4-3-3): Simon; Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Gavi, Rodri, Pedri; Pino, Oyarzabal, Torres. All. de la Fuente.

Iraq (4-4-2): Talib; Tahseen, Hashem, Ali, Doski; Amyn, Al Ammari, Sher, Iqbal; Al Hamadi, Hussein. All. Graham.