Norway

Norway enters World Cup 2026 as a Group I dark horse, with their opening fixture against Iraq on June 16 at Gillette Stadium offering an early chance to establish momentum in what shapes as a competitive pool. The Scandinavian side arrives without recent match data to assess current form, but their placement in a balanced group means every result carries weight in the race for qualification. Playing away in New England presents a neutral-ground challenge, though Iraq’s status as a lower-seeded opponent suggests Norway should be favored in the betting markets. Bettors tracking Group I will want to monitor team sheets and any late injury updates before the fixture, as Norway’s ability to convert early chances could set the tone for their campaign. The margin of victory, rather than the result alone, may prove the sharper angle here: a comfortable win establishes credibility, while a narrow escape raises questions about their depth. This opener is a measuring stick for Norway’s genuine World Cup credentials.