Spain’s FIFA World Cup 2026 preparations continue as Luis de la Fuente’s squad travels to the United States following a 1-1 friendly draw against Iraq. With key players rested and selection questions remaining, Spain will face Peru before opening its World Cup campaign against Cabo Verde on June 15.
The Spain national football team departed for the United States on Friday as preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 enter a crucial phase. Despite months of planning and strong expectations surrounding the squad, several questions remain unanswered following Spain’s 1-1 draw against Iraq in an international friendly match on Thursday.
The Spanish squad flew from Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain to Nashville, Tennessee, before continuing its journey to Chattanooga. The team will be based at Baylor School in Chattanooga throughout the tournament, using the facility as its training and preparation center ahead of the competition.
Thursday’s friendly against Iraq offered coach Luis de la Fuente an opportunity to assess several players, although the match provided few definitive answers regarding his preferred starting lineup for Spain’s opening World Cup fixture against Cabo Verde on June 15 in Atlanta.
Spain struggled to break down a disciplined and organized Iraqi side, which defended effectively throughout the game. The Spanish team fielded on Thursday looked significantly different from the lineup expected to start in the World Cup opener. De la Fuente used the match primarily to evaluate squad depth and manage player fitness rather than reveal his tactical plans.
Several of Spain’s most influential players, including Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Nico Williams, Martin Zubimendi, and Mikel Oyarzabal, were either resting or recovering from fitness concerns. Their absence allowed support players and reserve squad members to gain valuable match experience.
The Spanish coach made 11 changes during the match, ensuring that all nine support players called up for the training camp received playing time. Among them was goalkeeper Leo Roman, who was given an opportunity to showcase his abilities on the international stage.
Following the match, De la Fuente emphasized that the team’s objectives extended beyond the final scoreline. He explained that physical preparation remains a key priority as Spain continues its countdown to the World Cup.
“We had some objectives against Iraq, but we are also looking to achieve several things in terms of physical condition,” De la Fuente said after the match. He also noted that Spain still has 11 days before its opening World Cup encounter and another important friendly fixture scheduled beforehand.
Spain will travel briefly to Mexico on June 8 to face Peru in Puebla. That match is expected to offer a clearer indication of De la Fuente’s preferred lineup and tactical approach for the World Cup. With key players likely to return, supporters and analysts will closely watch how the coach structures his team.
One of the biggest talking points remains the goalkeeping position. Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon, who has been Spain’s first-choice goalkeeper since De la Fuente succeeded Luis Enrique after the 2022 World Cup, was rested against Iraq.
His absence allowed alternative options to impress, but the performance raised fresh debate. Garcia endured a difficult outing, appearing out of position for Iraq’s goal and looking uncertain when dealing with aerial situations during the second half.
Despite the speculation, De la Fuente appeared confident when discussing his plans. The coach suggested that decisions regarding the starting lineup are largely settled, stating that the coaching staff already knows who will start in goal along with the other outfield players.
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As Spain arrives in the United States, expectations remain high for one of football’s traditional powerhouses. The upcoming friendly against Peru and the final days of preparation will be critical as De la Fuente aims to fine-tune his squad and guide Spain toward a successful FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.
