Norway vs Iraq Betting Preview — World Cup 2026 Singapore

Norway’s first World Cup since 1998 — Erling Haaland finally gets his World Cup debut. Norway face Iraq in Group I alongside France and Senegal. This is Haaland’s chance to stamp his authority on the tournament. Read our group stage guide.

Match Preview

Norway — Haaland’s World Cup Debut

Erling Haaland has been waiting his entire career for a World Cup. Norway’s qualification ends a 28-year absence and Haaland will be desperate to make an immediate statement. He scored 33 goals in the Premier League in 2024-25 and leads the most physically imposing attack in the tournament. Against Iraq, Norway should dominate completely.

Iraq — Middle East’s Representative

Iraq qualified from Asia and face their toughest possible group opener. Their squad has limited European experience and Haaland’s physical presence will be a completely different challenge to anything they have faced in Asian qualifying. Iraq will defend deep and hope to limit the damage.

Betting Angles — Asian Handicap & Over/Under

AH Analysis

Norway -2.0 is the line. Haaland’s World Cup debut will be an enormous motivating factor — Norway should win by 3+ goals against Iraq. The -2.0 means win by exactly 2 is a push, win by 3+ wins fully.

Over/Under Analysis

Over 3.5 at 1.88 is the value line — standard Over 2.5 will be near 1.40. Norway’s attacking power against Iraq’s limited defensive quality should produce 4+ goals. Over 3.5 is the correct target.

Key Stats

• Norway last appeared at the World Cup in 1998 — a 28-year absence
• Haaland scored 33 Premier League goals in 2024-25 for Manchester City
• Iraq have never progressed beyond the group stage in World Cup history
• Norway’s qualification ended their longest ever World Cup absence

Frequently Asked Questions