Iraq vs Norway — World Cup 2026

Tale of the tape.

Last five walks into the room.

Who's hotter going in? Latest competitive results, newest first.

Iraq vs Norway: Three battles that will decide the group clash

Iraq face a Norwegian side bristling with European talent and clinical finishing, led by Haaland's predatory instinct.

// Central midfield · The puppet masters

Zidane Iqbal

#14 · Utrecht

VS

S. Berge

#8 · Fulham

Iqbal's press-resistant passing will test Berge's work rate, but the Fulham anchorman's physicality and range should dominate a midfield battle that sets the tone. Berge edges this one through experience and Champions League pedigree.

// Left flank · The predator and the wall

Merchas Doski

#23 · Slovácko

VS

A. Sørloth

#7 · Atletico Madrid

Sørloth's directness and physicality will test Doski's positioning and reading of the game. The Atlético striker thrives on chaos and half-chances; Doski must stay compact and deny space in transition or risk being undone by raw pace and power.

// Centre back vs Striker · David meets Goliath

Zayed Tahseen

#4 · Al Quwa Al Jawiya

VS

E. Haaland

#9 · Manchester City

Haaland's movement and lethal finishing will make this a thankless task for Tahseen, who must stay alert to runs beyond the line and avoid being separated from his partner. This is Haaland's stage to shine, though disciplined Iraqi marking can limit his touches in the box.

Iraq vs Norway: A tale of two footballing traditions

This is a clash of continental philosophies—the Iraqi defensive structure meets Norwegian fluidity.

Win probability.

Even-money default — ranks not yet on file.

The bench faceoff.

Iraq · Head coach

G. Arnold

Norway · Head coach

S. Solbakken

Where to watch.