Iraq Suffer 2-0 Defeat to Venezuela in World Cup Warm-Up
Cristian Casseres opened the scoring with a composed 17th-minute finish before turning provider, supplying the assist for Jesus Ramirez to double Venezuela's advantage shortly after the interval.
Iraq's challenge was further complicated when Yousif was dismissed for violent conduct, forcing the Asian side to battle through the final 20 minutes with a numerical disadvantage.
The result arrives at a critical moment for Iraq, who return to football's grandest stage for the first time since 1986, carrying the weight of an entire nation's four-decade wait.
Iraq opens their historic World Cup campaign against Norway next Tuesday before confronting heavyweights France and Senegal in Group I — a formidable challenge awaiting a side still finding its footing.
Venezuela, meanwhile, will watch the tournament from the sidelines after failing to secure qualification for the showpiece event spanning the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
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