Jørgen Strand Larsen

Haaland makes World Cup debut for Norway as Iraq returns following 40-year absence.

The FIFA 2026 World Cup Group I clash, Iraq vs Norway, kicks off at 20:00 [GMT+1] on Tuesday, June 16, at Boston Stadium. Iraq's current participation comes after its only appearance in the FIFA 1986 World Cup in Mexico. They head into Tuesday’s opening round with plenty of resilience following some commendable results in recent weeks. They have won three of their last six matches in all competitions, a record that reflects a competitive side capable of causing problems for higher-ranked opponents. However, their recent performances have been built on defensive organisation rather than attacking flair, with each of their last three matches producing under 2.5 goals. One of Iraq's biggest strengths has been their ability to remain difficult to beat. Under Graham Arnold, Iraq have developed into a disciplined and difficult side to break down. They have won 50% of their last ten matches in all competitions, averaging 0.9 goals scored and 0.8 conceded per game. They have won three consecutive home fixtures and remain unbeaten in 35 of their last 40 home matches. Although Tuesday's clash comes on neutral territory, those statistics underline the confidence and defensive consistency they bring into this encounter. The challenge facing Iraq is converting defensive stability into enough attacking threat. Their average of less than one goal per game suggests they often struggle to create and finish chances consistently. Nevertheless, Iraq's main objective will be to remain compact and deny Norway opportunities through central areas. A 4—4—2 formation with Aymen Hussein and Ali Al Hamadi in attack is expected against the Red, White and Blue. Norway will arrive in Boston with enormous momentum. Ståle Solbakken's side have emerged as a genuine dark horse for the tournament after an exceptional run of results. Across their last 30 matches in all competitions, Norway have won 60%, scoring an impressive 2.43 goals per game while conceding only 1.1. Even more striking is their recent form, with ten consecutive victories and an average of 4.6 goals scored per match during that winning streak. Their attacking firepower makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the competition. Erling Haaland remains the focal point, providing a constant threat inside the penalty area, while Atletico Madrid’s Alexander Sørloth offers additional notable physical presence. The pace and directness of Leipzig’s Antonio Nusa provide another dimension, allowing Norway to stretch defensive lines and create space for midfield runners. All three are expected at the attacking end of a 4—3—3 formation. Arsenal’s Martin Ødegaard is expected to provide an additional attacking threat from right midfield.