Norway’s World Cup journey in 2026 begins against Iraq with a squad brimming with talent from Serie A, as five players from Italy’s top flight are named in the matchday selection. Head coach Ståle Solbakken has opted for a 4-3-3 formation, with Torbjørn Heggem of Bologna starting in central defence, while four other Serie A representatives wait on the bench. Meanwhile, Iraq look to Como’s Ali Jassim to provide attacking flair from the start.
Norway’s Serie A Contingent
Norway’s squad features five players plying their trade in Italy’s top division, highlighting the growing influence of Serie A on the national team. Heggem, who impressed for Bologna during the 2025-26 season, gets the nod ahead of Genoa centre-back Leo Østigård. The Genoa defender must settle for a place among the substitutes alongside Torino right-back Marcus Holmgren Pedersen.
In midfield, Sassuolo’s Kristian Thorstvedt and Cremonese veteran Morten Thorsby—the most experienced Serie A player in the squad—are also on the bench. The only other Italian-based player in the matchday squad is Venezia winger Marko Farji, who starts as a substitute for Iraq.
How Norway Line Up
Solbakken has named a starting XI that blends youth and experience. Captain Martin Ødegaard orchestrates the midfield alongside Sander Berge and Fredrik Aursnes. The attacking trio features Erling Haaland through the middle, with Alexander Sørloth—who has been heavily linked with a summer move to Juventus—on the right and Antonio Nusa on the left.
Defensively, Heggem partners Kristoffer Ajer in the heart of the back four, flanked by full-backs Julian Ryerson and David Møller Wolfe. Ørjan Nyland starts in goal.
Iraq’s Italian-Based Threats
Iraq manager Jesús Casas has included two players from Italian clubs in his squad. Ali Jassim, who spent the last season on loan at Saudi Arabian side Al-Najma, starts on the wing for the Lions of Mesopotamia. The 22-year-old’s pace and trickery could cause problems for Norway’s defence. Venezia’s Marko Farji, however, must wait for his opportunity from the bench.
Iraq set up in a 4-4-2 formation, with captain Ayman Hussein leading the line alongside Mohanad Ali. The midfield battle against Norway’s technically gifted trio will be crucial to their chances of securing a positive result in Group I.
Key Takeaways
- Norway’s squad features five Serie A players, showcasing the league’s increasing impact on international football.
- Torbjørn Heggem starts in central defence ahead of Leo Østigård, while four other Italian-based stars are on the bench.
- Erling Haaland makes his World Cup debut in a star-studded attack including Alexander Sørloth and Antonio Nusa.
- Iraq rely on Como winger Ali Jassim for creativity, with Venezia’s Marko Farji available as a substitute.
- The match at Gillette Stadium could set the tone for both teams in a wide-open Group I.
Quick Facts
Kick-off: To be confirmed (Boston local time)
Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
Competition: World Cup 2026, Group I
