Iraq and Norway open Boston clash spotlighting Haaland, Aymen Hussein
Norway arrive on an eight-win qualifying streak, while Iraq return to the World Cup after a 40-year absence.
Iraq face Norway in the opening match of Group I at the 2026 World Cup at Gillette Stadium in Boston on Wednesday (17/6) WIB. The main focus is Erling Haaland, who is making his first appearance at a World Cup final with Norway. The Manchester City striker leads Stale Solbakken's golden generation, which is back at the tournament after missing it since 1998.
Norway are favored after a perfect run in European qualifying: eight wins from eight matches, 37 goals scored, and only five conceded. Haaland was also prolific with 16 goals throughout qualifying. Iraq, last at the World Cup 40 years ago, arrive relying on a compact team structure under Graham Arnold. The Asian side's hopes rest on captain Jalal Hassan, Ali Jasim, Ibrahim Bayesh, and striker Aymen Hussein.