June 16, Kathmandu – Erling Braut Haaland is one of the most influential strikers in world football today. Renowned as a goal-scoring machine in club football, Haaland’s dream of playing in the FIFA World Cup is about to come true. The Norwegian team, featuring Haaland, has qualified for the FIFA World Cup after 28 years. Placed in Group I, Norway will play against Iraq where Haaland is set to make his World Cup debut. All eyes will be on Haaland during this match. Having demonstrated his scoring prowess from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester City, Haaland aims to deliver a similar performance on the World Cup stage.
This match marks a celebratory return for both Norway and Iraq. Norway has qualified for the World Cup main stage for the first time since 1998, while Iraq is making its comeback after four decades, last appearing in the 1986 Mexico World Cup. According to FIFA rankings, Norway stands 31st and Iraq 57th. Norway excelled in the European qualifiers, scoring a tournament-high 37 goals. This will be Norway’s fourth appearance at the World Cup. Iraq, known as “The Lions of Mesopotamia,” will participate for the second time and is seeking their first win, having lost all three group matches during their 1986 debut. Iraq secured its place in this edition by defeating Bolivia 2-1 in the intercontinental playoff. Group I, also featuring strong teams like France and Senegal, is considered a “Group of Death.” Consequently, both teams hope to start their World Cup journeys with positive results. The match between Norway and Iraq will be held at Boston Stadium and will begin at 3:45 AM Nepal Standard Time on Wednesday.
