FIFA World Cup 26™: What to look out for in Iraq v Norway 🇮🇶🇳🇴 | OneFootball

After decades-long absences, Iraq and Norway are set to make their FIFA World Cup™ returns at Boston Stadium. Both sides, however, find themselves in a 'group of death' that also includes France and Senegal.

Here's everything you need to look out for in the second match of Group I.

Who is playing today? 👀

Competing in their first World Cup™ in nearly 30 years, Norway have no shortage of goals. Led by Erling Haaland and captain Martin Ødegaard, Ståle Solbakken's side cruised through their World Cup™ qualifiers, scoring 37 times in just eight matches.

However, it remains to be seen if the Norwegians can replicate their qualifying success on the biggest stage.

Iraq, meanwhile, are the clear underdogs in Group I. After defeating Bolivia in the World Cup™ play-offs, Graham Arnold's team became the last team to qualify for the tournament.

While most of Iraq's squad play their domestic football outside of Europe, Ipswich's Ali Al-Hamadi and Iraqi legend Aymen Hussein could pose a real threat in front of goal.

Players to watch 🔥

For Norway, it simply has to be Haaland.

The Manchester City striker has scored 55 times in 50 caps for Norway, including 16 goals in the Norwegians' impressive World Cup 26™ qualifying campaign.

The 25-year-old will be making his tournament debut against Iraq and you certainly wouldn’t bet against him getting on the scoresheet.

On the other hand, Iraq will be hoping for a breakout performance in midfield from 22-year-old Marko Farji, who plays his club football in Italy with Venezia.

Must-watch video 🎥

Fun facts 📊

Our prediction 🔮