Spain produced an impressive 4–1 victory over Iraq in an international friendly ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Discover the goals, match analysis, top performers, tactical breakdown, player ratings, statistics, and how La Roja showcased their quality before the tournament. Spain faced Iraq as part of their World Cup preparations in June 2026.
Spain 4–1 Iraq: A Statement Before the World Cup
Spain delivered an attacking masterclass with a convincing 4–1 victory over Iraq in a pre-World Cup international friendly.
Playing in front of an enthusiastic crowd, La Roja controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and demonstrated why they remain among the favorites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Iraq, preparing for its first World Cup appearance since 1986, showed determination but struggled to contain Spain's technical superiority.
The result provided a major confidence boost for coach Luis de la Fuente's squad ahead of the tournament.
Match Overview
Competition
International Friendly
Match
Spain vs Iraq
Venue
Estadio Abanca-Riazor, A Coruña
Date
June 2026
Final Score
Spain 4–1 Iraq
Result
Spain Victory
The match served as an important World Cup preparation fixture for both nations.
Spain Dominate From The Start
Spain immediately imposed their possession-based style and controlled the rhythm of the game.
Their midfield moved the ball quickly, creating space through intelligent movement and sharp passing combinations.
Iraq defended bravely but found it difficult to cope with Spain's constant pressure.
Clinical Finishing Makes the Difference
After taking the lead, Spain continued attacking with confidence.
Their forwards displayed excellent movement inside the final third, while the midfield supplied a steady flow of chances.
The additional goals reflected Spain's dominance and attacking efficiency.
Iraq Show Character
Despite falling behind, Iraq continued to compete and managed to score a goal that rewarded their effort.
The Asian side demonstrated fighting spirit and used the match as valuable preparation for the challenges awaiting them at the World Cup.
Goals Summary
Spain
⚽ Álvaro Morata
⚽ Dani Olmo
⚽ Mikel Oyarzabal
⚽ Nico Williams
Iraq
⚽ Aymen Hussein
Top 5 Players of the Match
1. Dani Olmo (Spain)
Match Rating: 9.7/10 ⭐
Match Statistics
- ⚽ Goal
- 🎯 Assist
- ⚡ Creativity
- 📈 Passing Accuracy
- ⭐ Man of the Match
Olmo controlled the attacking rhythm and constantly created danger.
2. Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain)
Match Rating: 9.4/10
Match Statistics
- ⚽ Goal
- 🎯 Key Passes
- ⚡ Intelligent Movement
- 💪 Strong Work Rate
Oyarzabal delivered another complete performance.
3. Nico Williams (Spain)
Match Rating: 9.2/10
Match Statistics
- ⚽ Goal
- ⚡ Successful Dribbles
- 🎯 Chance Creation
- 💪 Pace and Directness
His speed caused major problems throughout the match.
4. Álvaro Morata (Spain)
Match Rating: 9.0/10
Match Statistics
- ⚽ Goal
- 🎯 Leadership
- 💪 Hold-Up Play
- ⚡ Attacking Presence
The captain once again led the line effectively.
5. Aymen Hussein (Iraq)
Match Rating: 8.5/10
Match Statistics
- ⚽ Goal
- 🎯 Offensive Threat
- 💪 Physical Presence
- ⚡ Strong Finishing
Iraq's standout performer despite the defeat.
Player Ratings Summary
| Rank | Player | Team | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇 1 | Dani Olmo | Spain | 9.7/10 |
| 🥈 2 | Mikel Oyarzabal | Spain | 9.4/10 |
| 🥉 3 | Nico Williams | Spain | 9.2/10 |
| 4 | Álvaro Morata | Spain | 9.0/10 |
| 5 | Aymen Hussein | Iraq | 8.5/10 |
Tactical Analysis
Spain
Luis de la Fuente's side relied on:
- High possession football
- Quick passing combinations
- High pressing
- Positional rotations
- Aggressive attacking movement
Spain executed the plan effectively and controlled every phase of the match. Spain entered the game as strong favorites according to multiple pre-match analyses.
Iraq
Iraq focused on:
- Compact defending
- Counterattacking football
- Physical duels
- Quick transitions
While the strategy produced occasional opportunities, Spain's quality ultimately proved decisive.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Spain | Iraq |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 4 | 1 |
| Possession | 68% | 32% |
| Shots on Target | 10 | 3 |
| Total Shots | 19 | 7 |
| Result | Victory | Defeat |
Spain dominated most key statistical categories throughout the match.
Why This Victory Was Important
World Cup Momentum
Spain strengthened confidence ahead of the tournament opener.
Attacking Efficiency
Four goals highlighted the quality and depth of Spain's attacking options.
Squad Depth
Several players impressed and increased competition for starting positions.
Positive Preparation
The match provided valuable minutes before the World Cup campaign begins.
Fan Reactions
Spanish supporters praised the team's fluid football and attacking creativity.
Many fans highlighted Dani Olmo and Nico Williams as two players capable of making a major impact during the World Cup.
Iraqi supporters remained optimistic, viewing the match as valuable preparation against one of football's strongest nations.
Conclusion
Spain's 4–1 victory over Iraq demonstrated the quality, confidence, and attacking power of Luis de la Fuente's squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With standout performances from Dani Olmo, Mikel Oyarzabal, Nico Williams, and Álvaro Morata, La Roja produced a complete display and reinforced their status as one of the tournament favorites.
For supporters searching Spain vs Iraq 4-1, Spain highlights 2026, La Roja friendly match, Spain World Cup preparation, Iraq vs Spain highlights, or Dani Olmo performance, this match offered an encouraging glimpse of what Spain could achieve on football's biggest stage.
