Norway should enter the field with its maximum strength led by Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard against Iraq this Tuesday (16), in the opening of Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The duel is scheduled for 7 pm (Brasília time) at Gillette Stadium, in Foxborough, in the United States.
The likely lineups indicate a clash between well-defined styles. Norway, with a 4-3-3 formation, is betting on Ødegaard’s creativity in the middle and the presence of Haaland in attack, while Iraq should close down in a compact 4-2-3-1 to try to exploit counterattacks.
Norway goes with an attacking 4-3-3
Coach Ståle Solbakken must repeat the basis that classified the Nordic team undefeated in the European qualifiers. The likely lineup has Ø. Nyland in goal; J. Ryerson, K. Ajer, T. Heggem and D. M. Wolfe on defense; M. Ødegaard, P. Berg and F. Aursnes in midfield; and A. Sørloth, E. Haaland and A. Nusa in the attacking trio.
Ødegaard, with a high creation rate, will be responsible for feeding Haaland, who is going through a great phase and is the team’s main name. The formation prioritizes possession of the ball and speed on the wings.
Iraq bets on a resilient 4-2-3-1
On the Iraqi side, coach Graham Arnold should choose F. Talib; H. Ali, R. Sulaka, Z. Tahseen and M. Doski in the defensive line; A. Al-Ammari and Z. Iqbal as midfielders; I. Bayesh, A. Jasim and A. Al-Hamadi in the creative sector; and A. Hussein as a center forward.
Iraq’s strategy involves compaction in the middle and quick transitions, with Doski gaining prominence as a winger with offensive characteristics. The team arrives after a tough campaign that included playoffs.
Main duels in midfield and attack
The direct confrontation between M. Doski (Iraq) and M. Ødegaard (Norway) appears as one of the points of attention, considering recent performance evaluations. Haaland against the Iraqi defense will be another big test for the Asian defense, which will need a lot of discipline to contain the Norwegian’s finishing power.
Historical return of selections
Both Iraq and Norway return to the World Cup after long absences — the Iraqis since 1986 and the Norwegians since 1998. In Group I, which still includes France and Senegal, the result of this match could define important directions in the fight for a place in the round of 16.
The referee of the game will be Pierre Ghislain Atcho. Bookmakers place Norway as the clear favorite, but Iraq is looking for a surprise in its debut.
Where to watch live
The broadcast in Brazil will be broadcast on Betano, Prime Video and YouTube CazéTV. Also follow the main portals with real-time updates.
