Norway

20260617_iraq_norway
2026 FIFA blog

Iraq 1-4 Norway Analysis: Haaland’s 11-Touch Double Masked Norway’s Defensive Warning

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Norway opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I campaign with a 4-1 victory over Iraq at Boston Stadium, with Erling Haaland marking his tournament debut with two first-half goals from just 11 touches. However, the scoreline flattered Norway, as Iraq dominated midfield for long stretches, equalized through Aymen Hussein, and exposed defensive weaknesses that stronger opponents will exploit. Norway pulled away late through Leo Østigård’s set-piece header and a stoppage-time own goal, securing a valuable goal difference advantage despite an unconvincing defensive performance.
20260616_iraaq_norway_prediction
2026 FIFA blog

Iraq vs Norway Prediction and Analysis: Can Iraq’s Deep Block Survive Haaland and Ødegaard?

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Norway are predicted to defeat Iraq 2-0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I opener on 17 June 2026 at 01:00 East Africa Time, though Iraq’s compact defensive block under Graham Arnold could frustrate Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard for extended periods at Boston Stadium. East African viewers face a late-night kick-off to watch the Lions of Mesopotamia return to the tournament after 40 years against a Norwegian side that won all eight qualifiers while scoring 37 goals. The tactical battle hinges on whether Iraq’s midfield can sever supply lines to Norway’s forwards long enough to withstand the inevitable attacking pressure from a team seeking its first World Cup win since 1998.
Norway World Cup 2026 Squad
2026 FIFA blog

Norway World Cup 2026 Squad: Haaland, Odegaard and the Group I Breakthrough Story

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Stale Solbakken has named Norway’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, headlined by Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard. The squad features three goalkeepers, nine defenders, eleven midfielders, and three forwards. Norway will compete in World Cup 2026 Group I standings and fixtures alongside France, Iraq, and Senegal, making their campaign particularly relevant for East African fans tracking Senegal’s progress.
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