Iraq vs Norway: Haaland's Norway Face Determined Iraq in World Cup Opener

Iraq will make their long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup stage when they take on Norway in their opening Group D fixture, marking the nation's first appearance at the tournament in four decades.

The Lions of Mesopotamia endured a turbulent qualification campaign before finally securing their place in North America. Former head coach Jesus Casas was dismissed after a disappointing defeat to Palestine in March 2025, leaving Iraq's World Cup hopes hanging in the balance.

The Iraqi Football Association turned to experienced Australian manager Graham Arnold, who successfully guided the team through the remaining stages of AFC qualification and into the inter-confederation playoffs. A crucial 2-1 victory over Bolivia in March sealed qualification and sparked celebrations across the country, as Iraq booked just their second-ever appearance at a World Cup finals.

Their only previous participation came in Mexico in 1986, where they exited at the group stage after suffering defeats against Paraguay, Belgium and the hosts. Forty years later, Iraq return with renewed ambition and a generation determined to make history.

Preparations for the tournament have produced mixed results. Iraq recorded a narrow victory over Andorra before earning a respectable draw against Spain, but a 2-0 defeat to Venezuela highlighted the challenges they may face against higher-ranked opposition. Their limited experience against teams outside Asia could also prove a factor, having won only two of eight such encounters since late 2022.

Standing in their way are a Norway side brimming with confidence after an outstanding qualification campaign. Stale Solbakken's men were one of Europe's most impressive teams during qualifying, winning every match and collecting the maximum 24 points available.

Norway's attack was particularly devastating, scoring 37 goals while conceding just five. The Scandinavians have not appeared at a World Cup since 1998, but expectations are high that their current generation can make a significant impact on their return to football's biggest stage.

Although recent friendlies have delivered mixed results, including a defeat to the Netherlands and draws against Morocco and Switzerland, Norway remain one of the most dangerous teams outside the tournament's traditional favourites.

This match will mark the first-ever meeting between Iraq and Norway. The Europeans enter the contest as favourites, not only because of their superior FIFA ranking but also due to the wealth of attacking talent at their disposal.

Much of the spotlight will naturally fall on Erling Haaland, whose prolific goalscoring record has made him one of the world's most feared forwards. Supported by captain Martin Odegaard, Alexander Sorloth and exciting winger Antonio Nusa, Norway possess the firepower to trouble any defence in the competition.

Iraq will rely heavily on veteran captain Jalal Hassan between the posts, while defenders Zaid Tahseen and Rebin Sulaka will be tasked with containing Norway's formidable frontline. In attack, Aymen Hussein is expected to lead the line, supported by Ibrahim Bayesh, Ali Jasim and Ali Al-Hamadi.

While Iraq's journey to the World Cup has been inspirational, Norway's quality, experience at the highest level and attacking depth make them clear favourites to begin their campaign with three points.

Prediction: Iraq 0-3 Norway