The report says Norway completed qualifying with eight wins from eight matches, including a reported 4-1 victory over Italy in November 2025. That record gives Ståle Solbakken’s side the clearest platform entering the group.
However, Norway’s recent form has been less imposing. The team has reportedly won only one of its four matches in 2026, with a 3-1 victory over Sweden on 1 June. That gap between qualifying form and current momentum makes the opener more demanding than Norway’s campaign record alone suggests.
Norway will be expected to control the match, but Iraq’s ability to stay compact could test their patience if an early breakthrough does not arrive.
Iraq reportedly secured its World Cup place through the intercontinental play-off, beating Bolivia 2-1 in the final. A more recent 1-1 draw against Spain offers another reason for Graham Arnold’s team to believe it can compete against stronger opponents.
The challenge will be maintaining that level across the full match. Norway possess greater attacking quality, so Iraq’s defensive shape, concentration and ability to manage transitions will be central to their chances.
Erling Haaland remains the obvious danger. The update credits the Norway striker with 55 goals in 50 international appearances, a scoring record that makes him capable of deciding a tight match with limited service.
Iraq are likely to devote extra attention to Haaland, but that can create space for Norway’s other attackers. Their best route may be to move the ball quickly around the penalty area rather than rely solely on crosses towards their centre-forward.
The opening-round meeting between France and Senegal will also shape the early Group I picture. A Norway win would provide valuable momentum, while an Iraq result could immediately turn the section into a genuinely open contest.