Where to watch Iraq vs Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Norway enters as a big favorite against Iraq this Tuesday (16), in the duel that opens Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match takes place at the Gillette Stadium, in Foxborough, in the United States, starting at 7 pm (Brasília time).
Both teams return to the tournament after long absences. Norway has not participated since 1998, while Iraq last participated in 1986. The clash takes on the shape of an opportunity for the Europeans, who have Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, and an overcoming for the Asians, led by Australian coach Graham Arnold.
Norway’s star-driven comeback
The Nordic team arrives with high morale after qualifying undefeated in the European qualifiers. Haaland, the main name, is enjoying a leading role, while Ødegaard organizes the midfield. Coach Ståle Solbakken is betting on an offensive team, with a 4-3-3 formation that exploits speed on the wings and physical presence.
Iraq bets on compaction and counterattack
On the other hand, Iraq arrives with a lower ranking, but with tactical discipline. Arnold assembled a team that closes well and looks for spaces in quick transitions, especially players like Ali Al-Hamadi and Ibrahim Bayesh. The qualifying campaign, which included playoffs, showed the team’s resilience.
History and context of Group I
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Group I still includes France and Senegal, which turns this match into a decisive confrontation for the hopes of advancing. Norway needs to score points here to avoid making life difficult against the group’s favorites. Iraq, on the other hand, dreams of an upset that marks its return to the world stage.
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.
The referee will be Pierre Ghislain Atcho. Bookmakers reinforce Norwegian favoritism, but World Cup football holds surprises.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, transmission is carried out by Betano, Prime Video and YouTube CazéTV. Also follow real-time updates on the main portals.
