Match Preview
Iraq and Norway begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaigns on Tuesday night when they meet at Boston Stadium in their opening Group I fixture, with both sides eager to avoid an early setback in a tightly contested group.
With France and Senegal already set to face off a day earlier, both Iraq and Norway will be under pressure to keep pace in the standings from the outset.
Iraq Outlook
Iraq’s qualification journey was anything but straightforward, with the national federation even changing head coach in 2025 after a poor run of results. The appointment of Graham Arnold proved pivotal, as he steadied the ship and guided the team through the later qualifying rounds and playoffs.
A 2-1 playoff victory over Bolivia sealed Iraq’s place at the World Cup, marking only their second appearance at the tournament and their first since 1986.
Their recent form has been mixed, including a draw with Spain and a win over Andorra, but also defeats that highlight their inconsistency against non-AFC opposition.
Historically, Iraq’s only previous World Cup appearance ended in three group-stage defeats, a record they will be desperate to improve in North America.
Norway Outlook
Norway arrive in excellent form after a dominant qualification campaign, where they won all 24 points available and scored 37 goals while conceding just five.
Led by coach Ståle Solbakken, the Scandinavian side have regained momentum as a rising European force, powered by a strong blend of attacking talent and tactical discipline.
Although their recent friendlies have produced mixed results, Norway remain a serious threat, with Erling Haaland leading a star-studded attack.
This will be their first World Cup appearance since 1998, when they reached the Round of 16, and expectations are high that they can make a strong impact this time.
Team News
Iraq will rely heavily on captain and goalkeeper Jalal Hassan, who is set to earn his 103rd international cap. He will be shielded by defenders Zaid Tahseen and Rebin Sulaka, with Aymen Hussein expected to lead the attack.
Norway, meanwhile, are expected to field Erling Haaland in attack alongside Alexander Sørloth and Antonio Nusa. Martin Ødegaard will captain the side from midfield, supported by Sander Berge and Fredrik Aursnes.
Predicted Lineups
Iraq: Hassan; Ali, Tahseen, Sulaka, Doski; Al-Ammari, Iqbal; Bayesh, Jasim, Al-Hamadi; Hussein
Norway: Nyland; Ryerson, Ajer, Heggem, Wolfe; Ødegaard, Berge, Aursnes; Sørloth, Haaland, Nusa
Prediction
Iraq’s defensive resilience will be tested to the limit against one of the most in-form attacking teams in world football. Norway’s firepower, led by Haaland, is expected to be decisive.
Prediction: Iraq 1-3 Norway
