Spain vs Iraq prediction: two national teams step up preparations for the 2026 World Cup
On Thursday, June 4, Spain and Iraq will face off in a friendly match ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 CET, and I have a betting tip for this encounter.
Spain vs Iraq: Match preview
Spain have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, as have Iraq, with both nations set to compete at the global showpiece. The focus now shifts to preparations for the tournament, which is fast approaching.
Spain enjoyed an outstanding World Cup qualifying campaign. La Roja collected 16 points from six matches and remained unbeaten throughout the qualification process. As the reigning European champions, Spain are considered one of the leading contenders for World Cup glory and will be aiming to replicate the success they achieved between 2008 and 2010. In the group stage, La Roja will face Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. The Spaniards have every chance of progressing to the knockout rounds.
Iraq endured a long and demanding road to World Cup qualification. They began in the second qualifying phase, winning all four of their matches. In the third round, the team collected 15 points from ten games to finish third. Iraq then earned four points in the fourth qualifying round before advancing to the intercontinental play-offs. The Iraqis defeated Bolivia 2-1 to secure their place at the World Cup for the first time since 1986. They have been drawn alongside Norway, France, and Senegal in the group stage. It is an extremely difficult group, making qualification for the knockout rounds a major challenge.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Spain are unbeaten in their last eight matches.
- Iraq have won each of their last two games.
- Iraq will be making only their second appearance at a World Cup.
- These sides have met only once before. Spain claimed a 1-0 victory in 2009.
Prediction
Spain are playing at home, and I believe they should have more than enough quality to secure the win. My recommended bet is Spain to score over 3 goals.
