Iraq and Norway meet in the second Group I fixture of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. Kick-off is at 00:00 WAT (midnight, Wednesday morning in Nigeria). While France vs Senegal grabs the headlines in this group, this match is equally important. In fact, the winner here could set up a real challenge for second place in Group I. Therefore, neither side can afford to drop points this early.
Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | FIFA World Cup 2026 — Group I, Matchday 1 |
| Date | Tuesday, 16 June 2026 (midnight WAT into Wednesday) |
| Kick-off | 00:00 WAT | 23:00 BST (June 16) | 18:00 ET |
| Venue | TBC — United States |
| Group I Teams | France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway |
Norway: Team Overview
Norway are one of the most talked-about teams at this World Cup. The reason is simple: Erling Haaland. The Manchester City striker is arguably the most lethal finisher in world football right now. Furthermore, he arrives at this tournament having scored 33 Premier League goals in the 2025/26 season. As a result, every team in Group I will have their defensive plans built entirely around stopping him.
However, Norway are not a one-man team. Martin Odegaard provides creativity and leadership from midfield. Moreover, Alexander Sorloth offers an alternative physical threat up front. Norway’s team spirit and collective work rate have been outstanding in qualifying. Consequently, they arrive with real belief that they can reach the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
Iraq: Team Overview
Iraq are one of the surprises of this World Cup. They qualified from the AFC region and made their return to the finals for the first time in several decades. Their squad is built on pace and organisation, with a strong team ethic that has served them well throughout qualifying. In addition, several of their key players ply their trade in the Gulf leagues, which gives them a cohesive, well-drilled unit.
However, Iraq will know that Norway represent a major step up in quality. Nevertheless, they are not here simply to make up the numbers. Their coach has set up a compact, disciplined system that can frustrate even the best opponents. Furthermore, they have shown they can score goals on the counter-attack. Therefore, Norway must be careful not to leave space in behind their defence.
Key Players
| Team | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Norway | Erling Haaland | 33 PL goals in 2025/26 — the most feared striker at the tournament |
| Norway | Martin Odegaard | Arsenal captain — creative force and set-piece taker |
| Norway | Alexander Sorloth | Physical and clinical — elite backup to Haaland |
| Iraq | Mohanad Ali | Pacy winger and Iraq’s most dangerous attacking outlet |
| Iraq | Bashar Resan | Midfield engine — sets the tempo for Iraq’s attacks |
Predicted Lineups
Norway (4-3-3)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | O. Nyland |
| Right Back | K.A. Naess |
| Centre Back | L. Ajer |
| Centre Back | A. Ostigard |
| Left Back | B. Meling |
| Central Mid | S. Berge |
| Central Mid | M. Odegaard (C) |
| Central Mid | F. Aursnes |
| Right Wing | M. Elyounoussi |
| Striker | E. Haaland |
| Left Wing | J.P. Hauge |
Iraq (4-4-2)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | J. Hamid |
| Right Back | A. Adnan |
| Centre Back | A. Ameen |
| Centre Back | H. Majid |
| Left Back | A. Hussein |
| Right Mid | M. Ali |
| Central Mid | B. Resan |
| Central Mid | A. Karrar |
| Left Mid | A. Lateef |
| Striker | A. Salah |
| Striker | A. Jasim (C) |
Where to Watch in Nigeria
Fans in Nigeria can watch Iraq vs Norway live on SuperSport via DStv. Kick-off is at 00:00 WAT midnight on Wednesday 17 June. Set your alarm or stream on the DStv app.
Our Prediction
Norway are strong favourites here. Haaland alone gives them a significant advantage over any team at this level. However, Iraq will defend deep and look to frustrate Norway in the early stages. As a result, Norway may need to be patient. Nevertheless, their quality will eventually create chances. Haaland will find a way.
Both Teams to score: No
Over/under: over 1.5
Prediction: Norway 2-0 Iraq
