IRAQ HOLDS SPAIN TO IMPRESSIVE DRAW AHEAD OF WORLD CUP.

Iraq continued their encouraging World Cup preparations with a hard-fought 1-1
draw against Spain, frustrating La Roja on home soil.

Spain took the lead after 15 minutes when Ferran Torres finished off a swift attacking
move, but Iraq responded brilliantly through Merchas Doski, whose audacious strike
from a tight angle beat Joan Garcia for his first international goal.

The hosts dominated possession and created several chances, with Ahmed Basil
producing a string of impressive saves to keep Iraq level.

Despite Spain’s pressure in the second half, Iraq stood firm to secure a morale
boosting their result ahead of their first World Cup appearance since 1986.