Spain: World Cup contenders looking to hit top gear at home

Spain arrive at the World Cup as reigning European champions and the world’s second-ranked side, sitting just behind France in the FIFA standings. After disappointing exits in the previous three World Cups, La Roja now appear to have rediscovered the balance between attractive football and the ruthlessness required to compete for major silverware.

Luis de la Fuente’s men came through qualification unbeaten, winning five of their six matches with little difficulty. Even more impressively, Spain have suffered only one defeat across their last 28 internationals — a penalty shootout loss to Portugal in the 2025 Nations League final. Following a frustrating 0-0 draw with Egypt in March, this home fixture in La Coruña presents an opportunity to sharpen their attacking edge and reconnect with momentum before the tournament begins.

Iraq: returning to the biggest stage with growing confidence

Iraq are preparing for a historic World Cup appearance — only the second in the nation’s history and their first since 1986. Their road to qualification was hard-earned, culminating in a 2-1 victory over Bolivia in the intercontinental playoff to seal a long-awaited place in North America.

Since Graham Arnold’s arrival, the Lions of Mesopotamia have looked far more competitive and consistent. Nine victories in their last 14 matches underline the team’s progress after years of inconsistency. Although defeats to Algeria and Jordan in the Arab Nations Cup exposed some weaknesses, Iraq responded positively with wins over Bolivia and Andorra. That said, a narrow 1-0 result against Andorra highlighted the challenge awaiting them against elite opposition like Spain.

Match facts & head-to-head

Spain are unbeaten in regular time across their last 28 matches, with their only setback coming on penalties against Portugal

Iraq have recorded nine wins in their previous 14 matches under Graham Arnold

The teams have met only once before — Spain defeated Iraq 1-0 at the 2009 Confederations Cup through a David Villa goal

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