Group I is already shaping up to be one of the most demanding sections at World Cup 2026, and neither Iraq nor Norway can afford a slow start in Boston. With France and Senegal expected to battle for qualification, every point could prove decisive in the race for the knockout rounds. Iraq arrive as one of the tournament’s feel-good stories after navigating a difficult route to North America, while Norway return to the World Cup stage for the first time in a generation carrying genuine hopes of making a deep run.

Analysis

Iraq Determined To Make Their Return Count

Few teams in the tournament have travelled a more complicated road to qualification than Iraq. A managerial change midway through the campaign created uncertainty at a critical moment, but Graham Arnold ultimately succeeded in guiding the nation back to the World Cup for only the second time in its history.

That achievement alone has generated enormous excitement, but Iraq will not be content with simply making up the numbers. There is a resilience about this squad that has repeatedly emerged under pressure, particularly during the latter stages of qualification when their margin for error became increasingly narrow.

The challenge now is adapting to a significantly higher level of opposition. Iraq have shown they can remain organised and competitive, but they have also displayed defensive weaknesses when facing teams capable of moving the ball quickly through the final third.

Veteran goalkeeper Jalal Hassan is likely to be heavily involved, while Aymen Hussein will carry much of the responsibility in attack. Midfielder Zidane Iqbal could also have a crucial role to play if Iraq are to establish any sustained control in possession.

For Iraq, discipline and patience will be essential. An open game is unlikely to suit them against an opponent with Norway’s attacking firepower.

Norway Ready To Justify Growing Expectations

Norway’s absence from the World Cup has felt increasingly strange given the quality of players the country has produced in recent years. That wait is finally over, and there is a growing belief that this generation is capable of achieving something special.

Stale Solbakken has assembled a squad that combines technical quality, physical presence and attacking depth. Erling Haaland naturally attracts most of the headlines, but Norway are far from a one-man team. Martin Odegaard provides creativity and leadership, while Alexander Sorloth and Antonio Nusa offer additional threats capable of stretching even well-organised defences.

Perhaps most encouraging for Norway is the balance throughout the side. Fredrik Aursnes and Sander Berge provide stability in midfield, allowing the attacking players greater freedom to influence games. That structure was a major factor behind an outstanding qualification campaign and gives Norway a platform to compete with stronger nations later in the tournament.

The expectation inside the Norwegian camp will be clear. With tougher tests against France and Senegal still to come, this is a match they will view as an opportunity rather than a challenge.

A Test Of Organisation Against Firepower

The tactical picture appears relatively straightforward. Iraq are likely to sit deep, remain compact and attempt to frustrate Norway for as long as possible. Norway, meanwhile, will look to dominate territory, move the ball quickly and create opportunities through the movement of their front line.

The key question is how long Iraq can maintain their defensive discipline. If they keep the match level into the second half, pressure could begin to build on Norway. However, the Scandinavians possess too many attacking options to be contained indefinitely.

With Odegaard pulling the strings and Haaland constantly threatening the penalty area, Norway should create enough chances to eventually break through.

Verdict

Iraq deserve enormous credit for reaching the World Cup and have enough determination and organisation to make life uncomfortable for any opponent. However, Norway arrive with significantly greater quality across the pitch, a settled squad and confidence built on an exceptional qualification campaign. If they perform anywhere near their best level, they should take an important first step towards the knockout rounds.

Tip

Norway to win. Iraq’s defensive structure may keep the contest competitive for long periods, but Norway’s attacking talent and superior depth should ultimately prove decisive.