Iraq v Norway: 2026 World Cup Prediction

Norway returns to the World Cup after several years and kicks off with a tough but winnable match against Iraq. Will Erling Haaland hit the ground running, or will Iraq’s physical and resilient side spring a surprise? Oranje Palace brings you a full preview, line-ups and the best betting tips.

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Iraq v Norway preview

Iraq have qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 40 years and are known as a tough, physical and difficult side to play against. Norway, on the other hand, are heading into the tournament with high expectations thanks to global stars Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard.

Current Form & Team News

Iraq

The Lions of Mesopotamia recently secured an impressive 1-1 draw against Spain and are showing plenty of fighting spirit. They are physically strong and dangerous on the counter-attack, but struggle to score against top-tier teams.

Norway

The Scandinavians qualified in convincing fashion, including two 4-1 victories over Italy. They possess immense individual quality, but still need to prove they can translate that into results at a World Cup.

Head-to-Head

The two nations have never played each other before at a World Cup or in an official match. This will therefore be a historic first encounter.

Expected line-ups

Iraq (4-4-2):

Basil – Doski, Hashim, Tahseen, Ali – Al-Ammari, Iqbal, Farji, Jasim – Al-Hamadi, Hussein

Norway (4-3-3):

Nyland – Wolfe, Heggem, Ajer, Ryerson – Aursnes, Berge, Ødegaard – Nusa, Haaland, Sørloth

Iraq v Norway Betting Tips

Betting Tip 1: Under 0.5 goals for Iraq

Iraq have scored just twice in their last three international matches (one of which was against Andorra). Against a well-organised Norway side, we do not expect them to score. The odds for this bet are 1.67.

Betting tip 2: Julian Ryerson to score or provide an assist

Ryerson is in excellent form and has been involved in 15 goals so far this season. Against an attacking Iraq side, he will have plenty of freedom. You can back this bet at odds of 2.90.

Betting tip 3: Erling Haaland to score 2+ goals

Today’s Lucky’s Boost is the bet: Haaland to score at least 2 goals! The standard odds for this bet are 3.00, but today it’s available at 4.00 at Oranje Palace. You can’t pass that up!

Prediction

Final score: Iraq - Norway 0-2
On paper, Norway are clearly the better team. Haaland and Ødegaard’s individual class, combined with a solid defence, should be enough to secure victory.