Iraq meets Norway in Group I on June 16, 2026, at Boston Stadium in Foxborough. Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m. ET, and Norway enters as strong favorites on the betting market.
Match Preview
This is a group-stage match with a clear contrast in style and pedigree. Iraq will rely on structure, discipline, and counterattacks. Norwabrings more star power, especially in the final third.
Iraq’s projected shape is a 4-2-3-1. The likely XI includes Jalal Hassan, Hussein Ali, Zaid Tahseen, Akam Hashem, Merchas Doski, Amir Al-Ammari, Ibrahim Bayesh, Youssef Amyn, Zidane Iqbal, Ali Jasim, and Aymen Hussein.
Norway is projected in a 4-3-3. Their likely side features Ørjan Nyland; Julian Ryerson, Kristoffer Ajer, Torbjørn Heggem, David Møller Wolfe; Martin Ødegaard, Sander Berge, Kristian Thorstvedt; Alexander Sørloth, Erling Haaland, and Antonio Nusa.
That gives Norway the more explosive attack. Iraq will need to compress space and avoid giving Haaland clean service.
Key Players to Watch
Erling Haaland is the obvious headline for Norway. His movement, finishing, and physical presence can change the match in one action. Martin Ødegaard is equally important because he controls tempo and delivery.
For Iraq, Aymen Hussein is the main penalty-box threat. Ali Jasim adds pace, while Zidane Iqbal offers technique between the lines.
Amir Al-Ammari is another key figure for Iraq. He can help slow Norway’s midfield rhythm and protect the back line. That work will be crucial if Iraq wants to stay competitive.
Head-to-Head Record
Iraq and Norway have no recorded World Cup head-to-head meeting in the retrieved sources. That means this Group I fixture is their first World Cup clash.
The absence of history increases the value of current form and squad depth. Norway’s roster looks deeper and more proven at the elite level.
Prediction & Odds
The market favors Norway heavily. ESPN lists Norway at -316, Iraq at +755, and the draw at +422. ESPN’s game page also shows a Norway win likelihood of 71 percent and Iraq at 11 percent.
Another odds source places Norway around 1.28, with Iraq at 8.90 and the draw at 3.24. That points to a Norway victory, but Iraq can still make it difficult if the game stays tight early.
A 2-0 Norway win is the most natural call. A 2-1 result is also possible if Iraq lands a counterattack or a set-piece chance.
How to Watch (TV channels by region)
In the USA, FOX lists this match on FOX and streaming on FOX One. FOX’s broader tournament schedule also says all group-stage games air across FOX and FS1. That makes FS1 an important backup listing for U.S. viewers.
In the UK, live listings currently place the game on BBC One. Tournament broadcaster summaries also confirm BBC and ITV share rights across the competition. In the Arab world, beIN Sports remains the main broadcaster.
Iraq vs Norway is a sharp tactical test with a clear favorite. Norway has the stronger names, but Iraq’s compact shape can keep the margin respectable.
