Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has praised Iraq’s physicality and intensity after his side were held to a surprise 1-1 draw on Thursday.
Spain began preparations for the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, although they were without several of their starters with debut handed to several players.
The likes of Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Unai Simon, Marc Cucurella, Rodri and Nico Williams were all notable absentees from the starting lineup.
Speaking after the game, De La Fuente was impressed with the intensity of the clash and has backed his side to improve in their coming games.
“We wanted a game with a strong physical component, something that helped the players adapt. Today was about sensations and giving opportunities to other players”, De La Fuente said.
“No injuries — that’s important. Now we enter a new phase with more intensity and more players contributing. Tomorrow we’re in the United States, and that puts our focus exactly where it needs to be.
“They surprised me in a very positive way. We struggled in the first half to stop their progressions. Every match is difficult, but they showed rhythm, intensity, and good combination play. They’re an interesting team with a lot of energy. They pushed us and made things complicated”, he continued.
Ferran Torres gave Spain the lead in the 16th minute, but Iraq equalized almost immediately after Merchas Doski’s effort beat Joan Garcia at his near post.
Despite their dominance on the clash, they could not add to the scoreline, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw.
“We don’t treat matches as simple friendlies. We had goals against Iraq, but also physical requirements to meet”, De La Fuente added.
“My idea hasn’t changed. We’ll see how these days develop. We’re 11 days from our first match and have another friendly in four.”
Spain will face Peru in their final warmup game on Tuesday, before beginning their campaign at the World Cup against Cape Verde on June 15.
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