Norway has not qualified for the FIFA World Cup since 1998, and there is currently no scheduled match between Norway and Iraq for the 2026 tournament. While Erling Haaland remains one of the world’s most prolific strikers, his national team continues to compete in UEFA qualifying pathways, separate from the AFC-affiliated Iraqi national team.
Norway’s Path to the 2026 World Cup
Norway’s quest to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup depends on their performance in the UEFA qualification process. According to FIFA’s official tournament structure, European nations must navigate a rigorous group stage to secure a spot in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Norway last appeared in a World Cup in 1998, held in France. Despite the individual success of players like Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, the team has struggled to convert talent into tournament qualification. As noted by The Athletic, the Norwegian Football Federation has invested heavily in youth development, but the team faces intense competition from established European powers within the UEFA qualification bracket.
Is There an Iraq vs. Norway Match Scheduled?
There is no official record of a competitive or friendly match between Iraq and Norway for the 2026 cycle. Iraq competes under the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), while Norway competes under the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA).
According to FIFA’s match calendar, intercontinental matchups only occur during the specific FIFA Intercontinental Play-off Tournament, which takes place after the respective continental qualification cycles conclude. As of late 2024, no such fixture has been scheduled between these two nations.
Erling Haaland’s International Record
Erling Haaland’s scoring record for Norway is significant, though he has yet to play in a major tournament like the World Cup. According to UEFA statistics, Haaland has maintained a high goal-per-game ratio in both the UEFA Nations League and the European Qualifiers.
While fans often associate Haaland with his domestic dominance at Manchester City, his international career is often contrasted with his club success. The Guardian reports that Haaland’s ability to lead Norway to their first major tournament in nearly three decades remains a primary narrative for the striker. His performance in upcoming qualification windows will determine if he makes his World Cup debut in 2026.
Comparison of Qualification Paths
| Feature | Norway (UEFA) | Iraq (AFC) |
| :— | :— | :— |
| Confederation | UEFA (Europe) | AFC (Asia) |
| Last World Cup Appearance | 1998 | 1986 |
| Primary Qualification Goal | Finish top of UEFA group | Finish top two of AFC group |
The disparity in qualification paths reflects the different landscapes of international football. European teams generally face a higher density of top-ranked opponents, while AFC teams must navigate long travel distances and varied climates. According to FIFA World Rankings, both nations are currently working to improve their standing to secure favorable seeding for future tournament draws.