Iraq vs Norway, FIFA World Cup 2026 Preview: Iraq’s journey to the World Cup was far from guaranteed. After a concerning defeat to Palestine in March 2025, the national governing body dismissed manager Jesús Casas. His replacement, Australian Graham Arnold, took charge two months later with the team in danger of elimination. Arnold successfully steered the squad through the remaining AFC qualifying rounds and into the inter-confederation playoffs.
A 2–1 victory over Bolivia in March officially punched their ticket to the finals, marking Iraq’s first World Cup appearance since 1986 and only their second in history. Norway, meanwhile, navigated their path across the Atlantic with unexpected ease. Despite sharing a qualification group with Italy, the Scandinavians enjoyed a flawless campaign, securing a maximum of 24 points.
Under manager Ståle Solbakken, the team was prolific and disciplined, scoring 37 goals while conceding only five. Since the conclusion of qualifying, Landslaget has experienced fluctuating results in four friendlies, recording a 2–1 loss to the Netherlands, draws with Morocco and Switzerland, and a 3–1 victory over Sweden.
Iraq vs Norway FIFA World Cup 2026: What is the Head-To-Head Record?
Iraq and Norway have never played each other in a senior international match. The two nations are facing off for the very first time on the global stage as part of the Group I matchups at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Iraq vs Norway, FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams Stats Up
Norway and Iraq will have the opportunity to win their first match against one another as they meet for the first time.
Iraq vs Norway, FIFA World Cup 2026: Date & Time
The Iraq vs Norway FIFA World Cup 2026 match will take place on Monday (June 16) as per local time at 6:00 p.m. local time. In India the match will be played on June 17 at 3:30 a.m. overnight.
Iraq vs Norway, FIFA World Cup 2026: Predicted Line-ups
Iraq possible starting lineup: Hassan; Ali, Tahseen, Sulaka, Doski; Al-Ammari, Iqbal; Bayesh, Jasim, Al-Hamadi; Hussein.
Norway possible starting lineup: Nyland; Ryerson, Ajer, Heggem, Wolfe; Odegaard, Berge, Aursnes; Sorloth, Haaland, Nusa.
Iraq vs Norway, FIFA World Cup 2026: Result Prediction
We predict a tight contest and the match could be a one to watch out for neutrals. We predict a 1-0 win for Norway.
