Iraq vs Norway World Cup Preview: Lineups and Prediction

Norway’s long-awaited return to the World Cup brings immediate intrigue, and the first test is a tricky one against Iraq at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. It is Norway’s first appearance at the tournament in 28 years, and the spotlight is unavoidable: Erling Haaland, fresh from a qualification campaign in which he scored an astonishing 16 goals in eight matches, is expected to lead the line alongside captain Martin Odegaard.

For Iraq, this is a chance to upset the group hierarchy and frustrate one of Europe’s most exciting attacking teams. For Norway, it is the start of a campaign that also includes Senegal and France in Group I, but the opener against Iraq will shape the mood around Stale Solbakken’s side immediately. As seen in recent ScorePoint AI coverage such as Sweden vs Tunisia World Cup Preview, Lineups and Pick and Spain vs Cape Verde World Cup Preview and Prediction, opening fixtures often reward the team that settles quickest and controls the tempo early.

Iraq vs Norway Preview

The match kicks off on Tuesday, June 16, with Norway’s World Cup journey beginning in Foxborough. The Scandinavian side arrive with major confidence after marching through qualifying, where Haaland scored in every Group I match and added a hat-trick against Israel, five goals in one game against Moldova, and a brace in the decisive 4-1 win over Italy in San Siro. That kind of scoring form gives Norway a genuine edge before the first whistle.

Iraq, meanwhile, will be aiming to turn the game into a battle of concentration and discipline rather than open-field exchanges. Against a Norway team built around pace, movement, and elite finishing, Iraq’s best route is likely to be compact defending and quick transitions. The challenge is obvious: once Norway find rhythm, they can stretch opponents quickly, especially with Odegaard linking midfield to attack.

Norway’s Big Return

This is more than just a group-stage fixture for Norway. It is the country’s first World Cup since 1998, and the team enters the tournament carrying a rare sense of expectation. Their best World Cup result remains a round-of-16 finish in both 1938 and 1998, and that history adds weight to the current group. The federation has even gone to unusual lengths to keep players comfortable at the tournament, with reports that the squad will bring 300 kilograms of fish and renowned chefs to maintain familiar routines during a demanding schedule.

That emphasis on routine matters because Norway are not just relying on one player. Haaland’s goal return has been extraordinary, but Odegaard remains the creative hub, and Stale Solbakken has built the team around a clear attacking identity. The key question in this preview is whether Norway can turn superiority on paper into a controlled, professional performance in the first half, or whether Iraq can slow the game and keep the scoreline tight into the closing stages.

For a broader look at how the tournament’s elite sides are approaching the opening phase, ScorePoint AI readers can also revisit Germany 7-1 Curaçao: World Cup Blowout Recap and United States 4-1 Paraguay World Cup Recap, both of which underline how quickly a World Cup match can tilt once a favorite finds its rhythm.

Likely Lineups

Iraq probable XI

• Goalkeeper: Iraq’s first-choice keeper
• Defenders: a compact back four set to protect central zones
• Midfield: two deeper midfielders with one advanced runner
• Attack: one central striker supported by wide outlets on the break

Iraq are likely to prioritize structure over ambition, especially against Norway’s direct threat. Expect a narrow block, with the full-backs less adventurous than usual to prevent space opening for Odegaard between the lines.

Norway probable XI

• Goalkeeper: Norway’s established No. 1
• Defenders: a back four designed to support possession and quick recovery
• Midfield: Martin Odegaard as the primary creator
• Attack: Erling Haaland as the focal point, supported by wide service

Norway’s selection is expected to revolve around familiar names and continuity. Haaland’s role is obvious: occupy centre-backs, attack crosses, and punish any lapse in Iraq’s box defending. Odegaard, captain and Arsenal playmaker, will be tasked with supplying the final pass and controlling Norway’s attacking tempo.

Key Match Factors

Haaland’s finishing: Norway’s qualification numbers were built around Haaland’s remarkable output, and his habit of scoring in every Group I game is the clearest reason Norway are favorites to control this match.

Odegaard’s influence: When Norway combine Odegaard’s vision with Haaland’s movement, they can turn modest possession into high-quality chances very quickly.

Iraq’s defensive discipline: If Iraq keep the central channels narrow and force Norway wide, they can delay the game’s momentum and create a more uncomfortable contest for the Europeans.

Set-piece threat: In a game where open-play chances may be limited for Iraq, dead balls and second phases could be their best route to a breakthrough.

Prediction and Outlook

This preview points toward a Norway win, but not necessarily a chaotic one. Iraq have enough organization to make the game awkward in the opening stages, yet Norway’s superior individual quality should tell as the match wears on. Haaland’s presence alone changes the geometry of the pitch, and with Odegaard feeding him from midfield, Norway should generate enough chances to claim a clean, professional result.

Prediction: Iraq 0-2 Norway. Haaland looks the most likely scorer, and Norway should build from a controlled start rather than forcing the game too early. If they maintain the defensive standards they showed in qualification — including that 4-1 win over Italy that sealed their place at the finals — they should open their World Cup campaign with three points.

For more data-led match insight, ScorePoint AI’s AI predictions can help frame the tactical edge, while the AI assistant is available for quick questions on lineups, form, and key players before kickoff.