Does Erling Haaland play today? Iraq vs Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Erling Haaland enters the field as Norway’s highlight against Iraq this Tuesday (16), in the opening match of Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The clash at Gillette Stadium, in Foxborough (USA), at 7pm (Brasília time), marks the Norwegians’ return to the tournament after 28 years and Manchester City’s top scorer wants to start on the right foot.
Haaland arrives as the main name of a golden generation in Norway. The center forward scored 16 goals in the European qualifiers, helping the team to qualify undefeated, and is the best scorer in the history of the team with more than 50 goals.
Haaland, the goal machine looking for the kick-off
Coach Ståle Solbakken built the team around the number 9’s finishing power. At 1.95m tall, physical presence and a keen eye for goal, Haaland is the main threat to the Iraqi defense. Analysts predict that he can find the net more than once in this debut, exploiting crosses from Martin Ødegaard and speed from Alexander Sørloth.
Iraq aware of Haaland danger
On the other hand, Iraq, back in the World Cup after 40 years, knows that containing Haaland will be the key to avoiding a heavy defeat. Coach Graham Arnold should set up a compact defensive block in 4-2-3-1, with an emphasis on tight marking. Still, recent history shows that few can stop the Norwegian when he is inspired.
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Probable lineups
Iraq (4-2-3-1):F. Talib; H. Ali, R. Sulaka, Z. Tahseen, M. Doski; A. Al-Ammari, Z. Iqbal; I. Bayesh, A. Jasim, A. Al-Hamadi; A. Hussein.
Norway (4-3-3):THE. Nyland; J. Ryerson, K. Ajer, T. Heggem, D. M. Wolfe; M. Ødegaard, P. Berg, F. Aursnes; A. Sørloth, E. Haaland, A. Nusa.
Referee Pierre Ghislain Atcho will command the duel. Group I still features France and Senegal, which makes this match an opportunity for Haaland and company to seek a convincing victory and positive goal difference.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, the live broadcast will be on CazéTV on YouTube and Prime Video, with minute by minute available on ge.globo and Sofascore.
