Key Players in Group ‘I’ at the FIFA World Cup 2026

June 17, Kathmandu – An intriguing and strategic showdown is set to take place at the renowned San Francisco Stadium in California as part of Group ‘I’ in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Asian powerhouse Iraq will face off against the aggressive European team Norway. Historically, this match marks a significant ‘comeback celebration’ for both nations. Iraq has qualified for the World Cup finals for the first time in 40 years since the 1986 Mexico World Cup, while Norway has also returned to the main World Cup stage for the first time since 1998. Group ‘I’, featuring football giants like France and Senegal, has been dubbed the ‘Group of Death’. To keep their knockout stage hopes alive, both teams face immense pressure to win their opening match.

Iraq will rely on the tactical discipline and strong defensive setup instilled by their Dutch coach Dick Advocaat to challenge their European opponents, while Norway plans to secure three points under the leadership of one of the world’s top strikers and Premier League captain. The football history between Iraq and Norway is limited but notable; they have only met once before in an international friendly in 2002, where Norway edged Iraq 1-0. This will be the first encounter between the two on the World Cup’s main stage. Although history and experience lean in Norway’s favor, Iraq’s hardworking and resolute defensive style is expected to present a formidable challenge to the European team.

Players to Watch
Iraq
Aymen Hussein (Striker): Iraq’s primary attacker and top scorer, Aymen Hussein, plays domestically for Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya. At 6 feet 2 inches and 28 years old, Hussein’s international career is inspiring; he has been the leading scorer in the AFC Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers, guiding his team this far. His physical strength, aerial dominance, and excellent finishing inside the penalty box will test Norway’s defense throughout the match.

Ali Jassim (Winger): The 20-year-old rising star Ali Jassim competes in Italy’s Serie A with Como 1907. Revered as a key source of creativity and innovation for the national team, Jassim possesses blistering speed, superb dribbling skills, and the ability to evade defenders even in tight spaces. Positioned on the wing, he will add dynamism to Iraq’s offense.

Jalal Hassan (Goalkeeper): The experienced 34-year-old captain Jalal Hassan is the main goalkeeper for Iraq’s Al-Zawraa club. Having played over 110 international matches, Hassan is the unwavering pillar of Iraq’s defensive line. He will play a critical role in thwarting Norway’s attacks and reinforcing the team’s resilience.

Norway
Erling Haaland (Striker): Norway’s vice-captain and one of the deadliest goal machines in world football, Erling Haaland is the leading forward for Manchester City. The 25-year-old, a Golden Boot winner with consistent goal-scoring records in the Premier League, combines physical power, blistering pace, and precise finishing with both feet. Throughout the game, Iraq’s defenders will find him intimidating.

Martin Ødegaard (Midfielder): Norway’s captain Martin Ødegaard serves as the chief playmaker for Arsenal FC. Widely regarded as one of the best midfielders globally, Ødegaard controls the game’s tempo, delivering accurate through passes to create scoring chances for Haaland.

Antonio Nusa (Winger): The 20-year-old winger Antonio Nusa of Germany’s RB Leipzig is one of Norway’s emerging bright talents. With remarkable speed, exceptional one-on-one skills, and dribbling ability, he operates from the left wing, cutting into the penalty box and providing more space for Haaland to exploit.