How And Where To Watch: Iraq vs Norway in Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

With Erling Haaland set to feature in his first World Cup and Iraq returning to the grandest stage after four decades, both national teams begin their journey in the demanding Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™.

🏟️ When and Where

Broadcast Schedule – Iraq vs. Norway (June 16, 2026)

🕓 Mexico (CDMX): 4:00 PM
🕔 Colombia & Peru: 5:00 PM
🕕 United States (ET): 6:00 PM
🕖 Argentina, Chile & Uruguay: 7:00 PM
🕗 Brazil: 7:00 PM
🕚 Spain: 12:00 AM (Midnight) on June 17
📍 Stadium: Gillette Stadium
🏆 Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup – Group I
⚽ Match: Iraq vs. Norway

📺 How and Where to Watch Iraq vs Norway

beIN SPORTS will once again serve as an official broadcaster of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing the excitement of the tournament to audiences across France and the MENA region with full coverage, analysis, news, and the biggest matches from the world’s most important football event.

Click here to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup on beIN SPORTS Connect

If you are outside these regions, here is the complete list of official broadcasters for the 2026 FIFA World Cup around the world.

🇮🇶 Iraq's Preview

For Iraq, the simple fact of being in this World Cup represents a monumental achievement. The Lions of Mesopotamia return to the world stage for the first time since Mexico 1986, a four-decade wait that has fueled the dreams of millions of fans. Their qualification was the product of perseverance and a structure built on collective sacrifice rather than individual stardom.

Under the guidance of Graham Arnold, the Iraqis have forged a disciplined, compact, and competitive side. The goal-scoring experience of Aymen Hussein and the physical power of Ali Al-Hamadi will be crucial as they look to capitalize on any opportunity against a Norwegian team that is expected to dominate possession.

🇳🇴 Norway's Preview

Norway touches down in North America as one of the most intriguing sides coming out of Europe. Following years of absence from major tournaments, the Scandinavians have finally managed to translate their immense individual talent into collective results. The squad managed by Ståle Solbakken enjoyed a nearly flawless qualifying campaign and now looks to prove they can go toe-to-toe with the world's elite.

The name dominating the conversation is, without a doubt, Erling Haaland. Regarded as one of the finest strikers on the planet, the forward will feature in his first-ever World Cup, carrying the responsibility of leading a historic generation. Alongside him is Martin Ødegaard, the team's mastermind tasked with pulling the strings and creating play between the lines. Together with players like Antonio Nusa, Oscar Bobb, and Alexander Sørloth, they form an attacking frontline capable of unlocking any defense.

⭐ Players to Watch

🇮🇶 Aymen Hussein

Born in Kirkuk, Hussein has built his career on a foundation of perseverance and sacrifice. Over the years, he has established himself as one of the most prominent forwards in Asian football, thanks to his goal-scoring ability, aerial prowess, and leadership on the pitch. His presence in the opposition's box is a constant threat to any defense.

During the qualifying process for the 2026 World Cup, the striker was a pivotal figure for Iraq. His goals in decisive moments helped keep the World Cup dream alive for a national team that had to overcome numerous obstacles to secure their ticket to North America.

Erling Haaland

At just 25 years old, Haaland has already built a staggering career. His goal-scoring ability, physical power, pace, and clinical finishing have made him one of the most feared attackers on the planet. From his early steps in Norway and Austria to establishing himself as a global icon in Europe, the striker has shattered records and accumulated titles at an extraordinary pace.

However, there was still one piece missing from his resume: featuring in a World Cup. For years, Norway missed out on major tournaments despite the rise of a talented generation spearheaded by Haaland and Martin Ødegaard. That debt was finally settled following a brilliant qualifying campaign that returned the Scandinavians to the world stage for the first time since France 1998.

🎯 Final Analysis

Beyond the three points, this encounter could dictate the path for both teams in a group that also features France and Senegal. Norway knows that a victory would place them in a privileged position before facing their more demanding rivals. Iraq, on the other hand, looks to write one of the first stories of resilience at the 2026 World Cup and prove that their return is not a mere fleeting appearance.

With contrasting styles, distinct aspirations, and a great deal at stake from the very first matchday, the clash promises to be one of the most intriguing openers in Group I.