Persib Bandung defender Frans Putros gained a valuable experience in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup after featuring in Iraq’s draw against Spain.
The friendly match, held at Estadio Abanca-Riazor in La Coruna, Spain, in the early hours of Friday (June 5, 2026) local time, ended with a 1-1 scoreline.
Facing one of the world’s top teams, currently ranked second by FIFA, Iraq managed to show strong competitiveness.
The draw serves as an important morale boost for the Lions of Mesopotamia ahead of their appearance at the 2026 World Cup finals.
In the match, Frans Putros came on as a substitute in the 62nd minute, replacing Hussein Ali.
The 32-year-old player helped strengthen Iraq’s defence against Spain’s relentless attacks during the second half.
Although he played for only about half an hour, Putros played a role in maintaining the 1-1 score until the final whistle.
According to FotMob’s data, the Persib Bandung defender received a rating of 6.2.
He recorded 23 touches and achieved a passing accuracy of 85 percent.
Facing a lineup filled with Europe’s top players was a valuable experience for Putros, especially as he prepares for the biggest stage of his international career with Iraq at the 2026 World Cup.
Spain dominated the game from the start and took the lead in the 16th minute through Ferran Torres, who converted a pass from Dani Olmo.
Iraq, however, responded quickly. In the 27th minute, Merchas Doski scored the equaliser with a spectacular long-range shot that goalkeeper Joan Garcia could not reach.
In the second half, Spain continued to control possession and created several dangerous chances, even hitting the post twice.
Nevertheless, Iraq’s defence held firm, securing a disciplined 1-1 draw by the end of the game.
For Iraq, this result provided a significant confidence boost ahead of their participation in the 2026 World Cup.
Under coach Graham Arnold, Iraq are placed in Group I alongside France, Senegal, and Norway — a group widely regarded as one of the toughest in the tournament.
The draw against Spain sends a positive message that Iraq are capable of competing with the world’s elite teams.
Looking at the group’s strength, France clearly stand out as favourites, boasting star players such as Kylian Mbappe and N’Golo Kante.
Many observers are tipping Les Bleus to go far in the tournament.
Among them is Madura United defender Novan Setya Sasongko.
According to Novan, France’s squad depth makes them strong contenders for the 2026 World Cup title.
“I’m backing France because they have a balanced squad,” said Novan, as quoted by SURYAMALANG.
Meanwhile, Persib Bandung veteran defender Achmad Jufriyanto also supports France’s chances at the upcoming World Cup.
“I’ve always liked France,” said Achmad Jufriyanto during an interview with Tribunnews on Sunday (May 31, 2026).
The player, fondly known as Jupe, even shared his dream scenario for the 2026 World Cup final.
“Hopefully, they’ll meet Argentina again in the final — it would be a chance for revenge after the last edition,” he said.
His statement referred to the 2022 World Cup final, considered one of the greatest matches in tournament history, when France lost to Argentina on penalties after a 3-3 draw over 120 minutes.
It remains to be seen whether Iraq can spring a surprise in Group I of the 2026 World Cup.
