Iraq make their long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup when they face Norway at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. While Iraq battled through a gruelling qualification campaign to secure their place, Norway arrive with high expectations after a near-flawless route to the finals, setting up a fascinating Group I opener that could prove crucial in the race to join France and Senegal in the knockout stages.

Iraq Back on the World Stage After 40-Year Wait

The Lions of Mesopotamia are appearing at their first World Cup since Mexico 1986 after becoming the final nation to secure qualification. Iraq endured a marathon qualifying journey, playing 21 matches – more than any other team in the tournament – before finally booking their ticket to the United States.

Their only previous World Cup appearance ended with three narrow defeats, and they remain in search of their first-ever World Cup point. Preparations have been far from ideal, however. A mixed run of warm-up matches saw Iraq defeat Andorra, draw with Spain, and lose 2-0 to Venezuela, while leading striker Aymen Hussein’s temporary detention by US border authorities created an unwelcome distraction ahead of the tournament.

Despite those challenges, Iraq will take confidence from their defensive discipline and ability to remain competitive against stronger opponents.

Norway Looking to End World Cup Absence in Style

Norway return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998, with many believing this talented generation is capable of making a significant impact. Head coach Ståle Solbakken was part of Norway’s squad at that tournament and now leads a side packed with quality and experience.

The Scandinavians qualified in emphatic fashion, winning all eight of their qualifying matches and becoming one of only two European nations to maintain a perfect record. Their broader form is equally impressive, suffering just one defeat in their last 16 matches while recording 12 victories.

Recent results suggest their momentum has cooled slightly, with only one win from their last four outings, but Norway remain one of the strongest dark-horse candidates in the competition.

Head-to-Head

• This will be the first-ever meeting between Iraq and Norway.
• Norway have never faced an AFC nation at the FIFA World Cup.
• Iraq’s only World Cup match against European opposition ended in a 2-1 defeat to Belgium in 1986.

Key Statistics

• None of Iraq’s last six international matches featured a goal after the 55th minute.
• Iraq won fewer than four corners in seven of their last eight games.
• Both teams scored in six of Norway’s last seven matches.
• Six of Norway’s seven World Cup goals have been scored after half-time.

Players to Watch

Aymen Hussein (Iraq)
Iraq’s all-time leading scorer in the current squad with 33 international goals, Hussein remains the nation’s biggest attacking threat. He has opened the scoring in four of his last six goalscoring appearances for Iraq.

Martin Ødegaard (Norway)
The Arsenal captain arrives in excellent form after helping his club secure Premier League glory. Ødegaard scored Norway’s second-half equaliser in their final warm-up match and contributed seven assists during qualification.

Team News

Both managers appear to have fully fit squads available after avoiding injuries during their final pre-tournament friendlies.

Betting Analysis & Prediction

Opening World Cup matches are often cautious affairs, particularly for nations lacking recent tournament experience. Iraq’s matches have generally been low-scoring, while Norway may prioritise securing three points over producing a spectacular performance.

Although Norway possess superior attacking quality and should control much of the game, Iraq are likely to remain organised and difficult to break down. That points towards a relatively tight contest rather than a goal-filled encounter.

Prediction: Iraq 0-2 Norway

Best Bet: Under 2.5 Goals