Andorra Faces Iraq in Friendly Opener Before Nations League Prep

Andorra's men's national football team faces Iraq in a friendly at Montilivi Stadium in Girona on Friday at 6pm, kicking off a three-match preparation block for the Nations League.

The squad, under coach Koldo Álvarez de Eulate, trained on Tuesday and Wednesday before traveling to Girona for final sessions. Iraq, coached by Australia's Graham Arnold and gearing up for the World Cup with upcoming games against Senegal and Norway's Erling Haaland, features players like Venezia's Marko Farij, Luton Town's Ali Al-Hamadi, and Sarpsborg 08's Aimar Sher. Álvarez de Eulate praised their tactical order and competitiveness. "They play very disciplined, with strong one-on-one defending and offensive resources. We must stay alert," he said. The coach welcomes the near two-week window, likening it to September's schedule, and plans varied approaches to test adjustments.

Key squad updates include senior debuts for goalkeeper Marc de Castro of AD Torrejón in Tercera RFEF and forward Gerard Solà of Osca B, both promoted from the under-21s. Biel Borra, Èric de Pablos, and Aron Rodrigo join since the San Marino friendly. Absences feature Iker Álvarez, finishing Córdoba's season at Nuevo Arcángel against Osca, and Berto, playing Logronyès' Primera RFEF promotion play-off return leg Saturday against San Sebastián de los Reyes. Dropped players are Mauro Rabelo, Adri da Cunha, Chus Rubio, and Cucu.

After Iraq, Andorra hosts Liechtenstein on Thursday, June 4, at 7pm at the FAF's Nou Estadi in Encamp—defender Marc Vales' farewell match for Marc Pujol. Vales, at Europa of Gibraltar, stressed its value. "These friendlies help them as World Cup qualifiers, but we must deliver a serious performance," he said. It sets a benchmark for the Nations League and reacquaints the team with home conditions. The block ends Sunday, June 7, away to Kosovo at 7pm in Pristina's Fadil Vokrri Stadium.

Álvarez de Eulate highlighted the youthful energy. "A call-up full of young talent and enthusiasm to contribute toward the Nations League."