Home / Iraq Vs Norway Odds Picks Predictions For World Cup Group I Clash
The 2026 World Cup continues on Tuesday as Norway make their long-awaited return to the world’s biggest stage, taking on Iraq in a Group I opener at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. It is Norway’s first World Cup appearance since 1998, and they arrive with arguably the most dangerous striker in the world leading the charge in Erling Haaland.
Iraq is making its first World Cup appearance since 1986 after navigating a grueling AFC qualifying campaign to earn its place in the tournament. The Lions of Mesopotamia are organized and disciplined, but Norway enters as the more talented side on paper, boasting a star-studded lineup that includes Haaland and Martin Ødegaard. Led on the attack by Aymen Hussein, Iraq will likely need a resilient defensive performance to keep this match competitive.
Before placing your bets on Iraq vs. Norway, be sure to check out Hard Rock Bet’s Stats Hub. It’s packed with streaks, trends, and matchup data across every 2026 World Cup game, available on both mobile and desktop.
Erling Haaland Anytime Goalscorer: The case here is simple. Haaland has scored in each of his last 11 appearances for Norway, including qualifiers. On top of that, he just wrapped up another prolific Premier League season with 27 goals in 34 starts. As such a heavy favorite, Norway should dominate possession and create plenty of chances against an Iraq side making its first World Cup appearance in 40 years. With Ødegaard supplying service and Haaland finishing any opportunities, backing Norway’s star striker to find the back of the net feels like the most logical play in this matchup, even at its inflated price.
Betting Splits at Hard Rock Bet
Hard Rock Bet players are firmly behind Norway in this one:
Norway is commanding 64.3% of all bets and 56.7% of the handle on the 3-way moneyline.
Iraq is taking in 16.1% of all tickets and 25.3% of the money.
The draw is pulling in 19.6% of all bets and 17.9% of the handle.
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Michael Sciangula is a New Jersey-based sports betting and online casino writer. He has contributed iGaming content to several publications over the last half decade including the Action Network, New York Post and Philadelphia Inquirer. Contact Michael at [email protected].
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