Iraq vs Norway – Prediction, where to watch, kick-off time and line-ups 16-06

Iraq and Norway get their World Cup 2026 campaigns underway in this opening group stage fixture. The match takes place this Tuesday, 16 June, at 11 PM (BST) at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

With no previous head-to-head encounters, this historic first meeting is a leap into the unknown for both sides. This Iraq vs. Norway prediction points towards a cautious start, as neither team will want to begin the tournament with a defeat in such a crucial opening game.

Find out what our experts are predicting for today"s encounter.

Iraq vs. Norway - Head-to-head record

This World Cup group stage clash is a historic first for both Iraq and Norway. They have never met in an official match, making this encounter a step into the unknown.

Consequently, the usual Iraq vs. Norway stats regarding wins, draws, or goals are absent, presenting a unique challenge for analysis. This lack of historical data places a greater emphasis on current form and tournament preparation.

This blank canvas adds excitement to the fixture. Both sides can set the tone for future meetings and claim the first-ever victory in this encounter. Starting their World Cup journey this way ensures unpredictability will be a key factor.

Iraq - Looking for a strong start

Here is a closer look at Iraq’s current form. We will explore their latest results as they head into this crucial World Cup opener against Norway.

Recent form

Iraq approaches the World Cup with a mixed run of form from recent fixtures across different competitions. Their successful qualification campaign, highlighted by a 2-1 victory over Bolivia, demonstrated their capability under pressure. However, recent friendly matches have yielded less impressive results, including a loss to Venezuela, though they did secure a commendable 1-1 draw with Spain.

This inconsistency is evident in their overall record of 10 wins, seven losses, and four draws in their last 21 matches. While they secured important victories in the Arab Cup and World Cup qualifiers, they have struggled to build consistent momentum. This unpredictability makes their opening World Cup game a significant test for the squad.

The team has one reported injury (A. Yahya). They will rely on the experience of players like midfielder Osama Rashid, who has scored one goal. His presence will be vital as Iraq looks to control the tempo against their European opponents.

Results of the last five matches

Probable line-up for Iraq

J. Hassan; Z. Tahseen, H. Ali, A. Hashem, M. Doski; Y. Amyn, A. Al Ammari, A. Sher, A. Jasim; A. Al Hamadi, A. Hussein.

Manager: Graham Arnold.

Norway - Enjoying a strong run

Let’s take a look at Norway’s current situation. We will analyse their recent form, previous results, and the standout players for the upcoming match.

Recent form

Norway enters the World Cup with a strong recent record, securing 14 wins from their last 21 matches. Their qualification campaign was particularly impressive, featuring dominant victories such as an 11-1 thrashing of Moldova and a 4-1 win against Italy. However, their form in recent friendly internationals has shown inconsistency, with one win, one loss, and two draws.

The Scandinavian team boasts significant attacking prowess, a key element in their successful qualification. Alexander Sørloth is a standout performer, having found the back of the net five times and provided two assists in his last eight appearances. His clinical finishing will undoubtedly present a major threat to the Iraqi defence.

Furthermore, Norway arrives at the tournament with a fully fit squad, reporting no injuries ahead of this opening fixture. This clean bill of health means they can deploy their strongest possible lineup. Their solid qualification record and potent attack position them as a challenging opponent for their initial match on the world stage.

Results of the last five matches

Probable line-up for Norway

Ø. Nyland; D. Wolfe, J. Ryerson, K. Ajer, T. Heggem; F. Aursnes, M. Ødegaard, S. Berge; A. Sørloth, A. Nusa, E. Haaland.

Manager: Ståle Solbakken.

Iraq vs. Norway - Stats

• Norway have an impressive recent record, winning 14 of their last 21 matches while losing only three.
• Iraq’s form has been more inconsistent, with 10 wins and seven losses in their last 21 games.
• This will be the first-ever meeting between the two nations, so no head-to-head statistics are available.
• Norway’s Alexander Sørloth is a standout performer, with five goals and two assists in his last eight appearances.
• For Iraq, midfielder Osama Rashid has scored one goal in his last nine matches for the team.

Predictions for Iraq vs. Norway - Norway Favourites

Norway enters this World Cup opener with superior form and a potent attack featuring Alexander Sørloth and Erling Haaland. Their quality should be evident from the start, making a “Norway to win the first half" bet an interesting option.

Iraq"s inconsistent results, including losses to weaker teams, suggest they may struggle against a well-organised Norwegian side. Given Norway’s firepower, there is a strong possibility that the match will see over 2.5 goals in total.

Considering Norway"s strong run and attacking depth against Iraq"s recent struggles, our main prediction is for “Norway to win with a -0.75 Asian Handicap", expecting them to secure a comfortable victory in their opening match.

Iraq x Norway
Tip	Tip	Best Odd
Money Line	Norway to lead at half-time	1.56 at BetMGM
Double Chance & Over/Under	The match to have over 2.5 goals and not be a draw	at BetMGM

The odds mentioned were collected at the time of writing this prediction and are subject to change. Always check the bookmaker"s site for up-to-date information.

Best markets to bet on Iraq vs. Norway

For more betting tips on the Iraq vs. Norway match, explore our additional suggestions for this exciting clash.

🔥 Asian Handicap: Norway -1.5 - 0.00 at BetMGM

Considering Norway"s offensive power, they are not only expected to win but to do so with a clear margin. Therefore, the Asian Handicap market for Norway -1.5 is an interesting option.

🔥 Double Chance: 12 - 1.08 at BetMGM

Given the technical gap between the teams, a draw is a less likely outcome. The bets on Iraq vs. Norway for the “Double Chance 12" market provide a safer alternative.

Where to watch Iraq vs. Norway?

Here is where to watch Iraq vs. Norway live:

• TV: BBC One UK
• Streaming: BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport Web, BBC RED Button (GBR), BBC Radio 5 Live (GBR)

Iraq vs. Norway - Match details

Check out the match details:

• Match: Iraq vs. Norway
• Competition: World Cup 2026
• Date: 16/06/2026
• Kick-off: 11 PM (BST)
• Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts, United States
• Broadcast: BBC iPlayer, BBC One UK, BBC Sport Web, BBC Radio 5 Live (GBR), BBC RED Button (GBR)

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