Iraq vs Norway | FIFA World Cup 2026 — Group Stage | Preview and Predictions

Appearing at the World Cup after a long hiatus, both Iraq and Norway will be raring to go as they face each other in a vital Group I clash on 17th June at the Boston Stadium. 

For the game, here we present our preview and prediction.

FIFA WC26 | Group I: IRQ vs NOR| 03:30 IST, June 17, 2026

Iraq has only appeared at the World Cup once before in 1986 and have qualified for the coveted tournament after a four-decade absence. Norway has also qualified for the World Cup after a 28-year hiatus and this is their fourth appearance at the World Cup stage. 

Iraq qualified for the World Cup in dramatic fashion, grabbing the last spot beating Bolivia 2-1 in the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico while Norway had a contrasting qualification campaign. Super striker Erling Haaland’s unbelievable form led Norway to qualify top of their qualifying group with Haaland scoring 16 goals and the Norwegians winning all eight qualifying fixtures, topping their group.

Both teams have been fortunate with injury issues and have fully fit squads available for selection. Although Norway captain Martin Ødegaard has suffered several injury issues since the start of this year, he has brushed off any fitness concerns and is fit to start in their opening World Cup game. 

While Iraq struggled to rely on the play-offs to qualify, Norway made light work of the World Cup qualification and are the overwhelming favourites to win this game. Having said that, the World Cup has seen most competitive matches from Asian teams and Norway should not be taking this game lightly considering the tough group they are in. Iraq do possess certain players who can make a difference but could find it difficult to contain Haaland as he has been exceptional throughout the qualifying campaign. 

Norway should definitely win this one based on recent form and superior talent in their squad. With Ødegaard and Sander Berge running the midfield, Haaland and Alexander Sørloth leading the line, they have enough ammunition to get past Iraq. Our prediction for this game would be a comfortable Norway win. 

Score Prediction: Norway 3-1 Iraq 

Venue: Boston Stadium, Massachusetts, USA