- Norway returns to the World Cup for the first time since 1998 after dominant qualifying (8 wins) and arrives as a dark‑horse led by superstar Erling Haaland — he’s heavily favored to score.
- Iraq earned the tournament’s final spot via an intercontinental playoff, making only their second World Cup appearance and first in 40 years; a recent 1-1 draw with Spain has boosted optimism.
- The teams meet Tuesday, June 16, in the World Cup opener at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, live on FOX.
The news, distilled into what matters.
Get the full experience in the app — topics, comments, and audio summaries.