Iraq vs Norway, FIFA World Cup 2026: Live Stream, Kick-Off Time, TV Channel and Match Preview

Norway begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Iraq on Tuesday night in Boston, with Erling Haaland finally set to make his long-awaited World Cup debut.

The Scandinavian side arrive as one of Europe's form teams after an impressive qualifying campaign that included victories over Italy, while Iraq return to football's biggest stage hoping to spring an early surprise in a difficult group that also features France and Senegal.

With three crucial points on the line, both teams will be desperate to start their tournament on the right note.

Iraq vs Norway: Match Details

• Fixture: Iraq vs Norway
• Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 - Group D
• Date: June 17, 2026 (IST)
• Venue: Gillette Stadium, Boston, Massachusetts

Kick-Off Time

• India (IST): 3:30 AM, Wednesday, June 17
• USA (ET): 6:00 PM, Tuesday, June 16
• UK (BST): 11:00 PM, Tuesday, June 16

Where To Watch Iraq vs Norway Live?

• India: Zee5, Unite8 Sports
• United States: FOX Sports, FOX Sports App
• United Kingdom: BBC One
• Australia: SBS

Match Preview

Norway enter the tournament carrying significant momentum after a flawless qualification campaign. Stale Solbakken's side won all eight of their qualifiers, scoring 37 goals and establishing themselves

as one of the most exciting attacking teams in Europe.

Much of the spotlight will naturally fall on Erling Haaland. The Manchester City striker scored 16 goals during qualifying and now gets the opportunity to showcase his talents on the World Cup stage for the first time in his career.

However, Norway's strength extends far beyond Haaland. Captain Martin Odegaard controls the tempo from midfield, while Alexander Sorloth and Antonio Nusa provide additional firepower in attack.

For Iraq, the challenge is clear. Graham Arnold's side are expected to adopt a compact, defence-first approach while looking to strike on the counterattack through forwards Aymen Hussein and Ali Al-Hamadi.

Having secured qualification through the intercontinental playoffs, Iraq arrive as underdogs but will draw confidence from the strong performances shown by several Asian nations during the opening week of the tournament.

Players To Watch

Erling Haaland (Norway)

The headline attraction. Haaland has dominated club football for years but is finally set for his first appearance at a major international tournament. Norway's hopes of a deep run will largely depend on their superstar striker.

Martin Odegaard (Norway)

The Arsenal captain remains the creative heartbeat of this Norwegian side. His ability to unlock stubborn defences could prove decisive against Iraq's compact setup.

Aymen Hussein (Iraq)

Iraq's primary goal threat. Chances may be limited, but Hussein has the experience and finishing ability to punish any defensive lapse.

Ali Al-Hamadi (Iraq)

The powerful forward will be tasked with leading Iraq's counterattacks and providing an outlet whenever Norway push numbers forward.

Prediction

Norway possess superior quality across the pitch and should control possession for long periods. Iraq are likely to make life difficult through disciplined defending, but Haaland and company have enough attacking talent to find a breakthrough.

Prediction: Iraq 0-2 Norway