Iraq return to the World Cup after a staggering 40-year absence — their last appearance was at Mexico 1986 — as they face Norway in their Group I opener at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts on Tuesday, 16 June 2026 (6 PM ET). The match carries two historic subplots: Iraq's long-awaited return, and Erling Haaland making his first-ever World Cup appearance. (Opta Analyst)
Iraq's landmark return
Iraq's qualification is a sporting achievement that transcends football, arriving after decades of immense national challenges. The current generation — professionals in Asian and European leagues — carry the hopes of a nation that has waited four decades for this moment. In 1986 Iraq left without a win; this edition carries a different spirit. (Goal.com)
Haaland's long-awaited debut
Erling Haaland finally gets his World Cup moment. Norway went unbeaten through qualifying with a perfect 8 wins from 8 — a record matched only by England in Europe — and Haaland was the driving force, scoring 16 goals including a five-goal haul against Moldova. Alexander Sørloth is expected to partner or flank him, giving Norway one of the most physically imposing attacking lines in the tournament. (Sports Mole)
How can Iraq stop Haaland?
The key for Iraq is denying service rather than winning individual duels. Keeping Haaland starved of crosses in the box is the entire defensive game plan. Expect Iraq to sit in a low block with double coverage on Haaland, looking to build from the counter on the break. Opta gives Norway a 77.4% win probability from 25,000 simulations — but upsets are the soul of this tournament. (RotoWire)
Group I and what's at stake
Group I is arguably the tournament's toughest pool, also featuring France and Senegal. A positive result for Iraq tonight would be genuinely historic. Follow the match and every Iraq World Cup 2026 update live at Malaab Al-An.