FIFA World Cup 2026: Iraq lose to Venezuela, Saudi Arabia draw with Senegal in tournament warm-ups

Pennsylvania: Iraq suffered a 2-0 defeat against Venezuela in their final FIFA World Cup 2026 warm-up friendly in Bridgeville, Illinois, on Wednesday.

Venezuela took the lead in the 17th minute through Cristian Casseres, who finished from close range to put the South American side ahead.

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The visitors doubled their advantage immediately after the restart when Casseres won possession and set up striker Jesus Ramirez, who beat a defender before unleashing a powerful finish to make it 2-0.

Iraq's night further worsened as they were reduced to 10 men in the 72nd minute after forward Ali Youssef was shown a straight red card.

Despite the defeat, Iraq will return to the World Cup finals for the first time in 40 years, with their Group I campaign set to begin against Norway on June 17, followed by matches against France and Senegal.

In another warm-up fixture, Saudi Arabia played out a goalless draw against 10-man Senegal in their final preparatory match before the tournament.

Saudi Arabia, coached by Giorgos Donis, made several changes in the second half after fielding a strong starting lineup and created early chances, including a close effort from Musab Al Juwayr in the 10th minute.

Senegal also threatened through Lamine Camara and Nicolas Jackson but failed to break the deadlock, as the match ended 0-0.

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Saudi Arabia will open their Group H campaign against Uruguay on June 16, while Senegal begins their Group I journey against France before facing Norway and Iraq.