TRIBUNMATARAMAN.COM – Prediction of the line-ups for Iraq vs Norway in the 2026 World Cup on Wednesday (17 June 2026), broadcast live on TVRI. Persib Bandung’s defender Frans Putros is ready to feature.
The 2026 World Cup match between Iraq and Norway can also be watched via online live streaming platforms FolaPlay and MAXStream starting from 05:00 WIB.
The Group I matchday one clash between Iraq and Norway is expected to be a challenging encounter for the Asian representative. The game, held at Foxborough, marks Iraq’s return to the World Cup after a long absence, while Norway arrive with what many consider their golden generation.
Iraq’s road to the 2026 World Cup was one of the longest among Asian teams. After defeating Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates in the AFC qualifiers, the Lions of Mesopotamia still had to overcome the intercontinental playoff before finally booking their ticket to the finals in March 2026.
Now placed in Group I alongside France, Norway, and Senegal, Iraq face a tough battle for progression. However, under head coach Graham Arnold, they remain determined to spring a surprise.
Graham Arnold Relies on a Mix of Domestic and Overseas Players
Since Graham Arnold took charge, Iraq have shown significant improvement. The former Australia coach has recorded nine wins from 17 matches in charge of the Lions of Mesopotamia.
The Iraqi squad features several players based abroad, including Frans Putros, Rebin Sulaka, Zidane Iqbal, and Ali Jasim. Up front, Aymen Hussein remains the key figure expected to deliver goals.
However, Iraq’s overall squad quality is still considered inferior to Norway’s, who boast several elite European players.
Norway’s Golden Generation Returns to the World Stage
Norway make their World Cup return after last appearing in 1998. With stars like Erling Haaland, Martin Odegaard, and Alexander Sorloth, the Landslaget are seen as a team to watch.
Norway’s qualification campaign for the 2026 World Cup was impressive. They won all their European qualifying matches, collecting a perfect 24 points, scoring 37 goals, and conceding only five.
Notably, they defeated Italy twice, including a dominant 4–1 away victory.
In addition to Haaland, Odegaard, and Sorloth, Norway’s squad also includes notable names such as Orjan Nyland, Julian Ryerson, Antonio Nusa, and Kristian Thorstvedt.
Erling Haaland’s World Cup Debut
The match against Iraq marks Erling Haaland’s much-anticipated World Cup debut. The Manchester City striker will experience the tournament atmosphere for the first time in his career.
Haaland arrives with extraordinary statistics for Norway, having scored 55 goals in just 50 international appearances at the age of 25.
His finishing prowess is expected to pose a major threat to Iraq’s defence, which will likely adopt a more defensive setup and rely on quick counterattacks.
Head-to-Head Record
This will be the first-ever meeting between Iraq and Norway.
Norway have historically performed strongly against Asian teams, including a 6–0 win over Jordan in September 2023.
In contrast, Iraq’s record against non-Asian opponents has been less convincing. In eight inter-confederation matches since 2022, they have managed just two wins.
Score Prediction: Iraq vs Norway
Based on squad depth, player experience, and qualification form, Norway are the clear favourites heading into this Group I opener.
Iraq are expected to rely on tight defending and quick counterattacks through Aymen Hussein. Nevertheless, Norway’s attacking power led by Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard is likely to make the difference.
Predicted Score: Iraq 0–2 Norway
The excitement of the 2026 World Cup has spread across various regions, including Lamongan in East Java. The global football tournament, held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has not only entertained football fans but also boosted local small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Several coffee shops in Lamongan are now decorated with World Cup-themed ornaments. Flags of participating nations, banners, and football trinkets adorn the venues to create a lively atmosphere for community watch parties (nobar).
One of the most popular cafes is owned by Fajar Alfaru, who has creatively decorated his shop with flags from participating countries to enhance the World Cup vibe.
According to Fajar, the idea came from his desire to offer a unique experience for customers who want to watch matches with friends or football communities.
“We want to make the atmosphere more vibrant and ensure visitors feel comfortable during the screenings. Many customers come here just to enjoy the World Cup vibe,” he said.
The local enthusiasm for the 2026 World Cup has significantly increased visitor numbers compared to regular days. The large number of participating countries and exciting fixtures attract people to gather and enjoy the matches together.
Additionally, the availability of free broadcasts on TVRI has encouraged more people to choose coffee shops as their preferred venue for watch parties.
Not only Lamongan residents but also visitors from surrounding districts have come to enjoy the lively match atmosphere.
Fajar mentioned that the World Cup-themed decor has had a positive impact on his business, with customer numbers surging, especially during big matches.
This trend has also received positive feedback from the public. Johan, a visitor and football fan, said he enjoyed the festive atmosphere created by local entrepreneurs.
“It feels more exciting and really captures the World Cup spirit. People don’t have to worry about finding a comfortable place to watch,” he said.
Johan supports Germany and Portugal in the 2026 World Cup and hopes both teams can reach the final.
The trend of decorating cafes with World Cup themes is expected to continue until the tournament concludes in July 2026. Besides providing entertainment, this phenomenon also creates economic opportunities for SMEs by increasing sales during the global football festival.
HEAD TO HEAD
Iraq’s Last 5 Matches
22-03-2026: Iraq vs Nigeria 1–2 (International Friendly)
28-03-2026: Iraq vs Costa Rica 5–0 (International Friendly)
29-05-2026: Iraq vs Andorra 1–0 (International Friendly)
04-06-2026: Spain vs Iraq 1–1 (International Friendly)
10-06-2026: Iraq vs Venezuela 0–2 (International Friendly)
Norway’s Last 5 Matches
16-11-2025: Italy vs Norway 1–4 (World Cup Qualifier)
27-03-2026: Netherlands vs Norway 2–1 (International Friendly)
31-03-2026: Norway vs Switzerland 0–0 (International Friendly)
01-06-2026: Norway vs Sweden 3–1 (International Friendly)
07-06-2026: Morocco vs Norway 1–1 (International Friendly)
Iraq (4-1-3-2): Jalal Hasaan; Hussein Ali, Zaid Tahseen, Frans Putros, Merchas Doski; Amir Al-Ammari; Marko Farji, Zidane Iqbal, Ali Jasim; Ali Al-Hamadi, Aymen Hussein. | Coach: Graham Arnold.
Norway (4-3-3): Orjan Nyland; Julian Ryerson, Kristoffer Ajer, Torbjorn Heggem, David Moller Wolfe; Martin Odegaard, Sander Berge, Patrick Berg; Alexander Sorloth, Erling Haaland, Antonio Nusa. | Coach: Stale Solbakken.
(TribunMataraman.com)
