Pre-matchTuesday, June 16

Haaland's Norway Face Iraq Opener as Pool Backs Scandinavian Sweep

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Norway arrive as overwhelming favourites in their Group I curtain-raiser against Iraq, with 65 of 74 pool members predicting a Scandinavian win—but the Lions of Mesopotamia have home-region support and nothing to lose in Kansas City.

The pool is all-in on Norway: 65 of 74 picked an away win (88%), with 22 plumping for a clean 0–2, while bookmakers similarly install the Scandinavians as clear favourites—only one brave soul backed Iraq.

The Stakes: Four-Way Scramble Begins

Group I is wide open: France, Iraq, Norway, and Senegal all sit level on zero points before a ball is kicked. Three points here would be a statement, especially for Norway, who need to navigate a tricky opener before facing France and Senegal. Iraq, ranked lower and with modest World Cup pedigree, can play spoiler and shift the entire group's complexion if they snatch an upset in Kansas City.

Team News & Tactical Battleground

Norway's attack revolves around Erling Haaland, who enters the tournament in blistering club form and flanked by creative midfielders Martin Ødegaard and Alexander Sørloth. Iraq will rely on a disciplined low block and the pace of forward Aymen Hussein to hit on the counter. Expect Norway to dominate possession—the key duel is whether Iraq's backline, marshalled by veteran defenders, can frustrate Haaland long enough to keep the scoreline respectable. No major injury concerns reported for either squad as of matchday.

What the Market Says

Bookmakers make Norway clear favourites for the win, reflecting both their star-studded roster and superior FIFA ranking. The prevailing lines suggest a comfortable Scandinavian victory, though Iraq's home-region support (the match is in Kansas City but culturally closer to neutral) could narrow margins. The pool's consensus—88% on an away win—mirrors that confidence, with the 0–2 scoreline the single most popular call among your friends.

▸Sources (32)