Iraq will likely sit in a **compact low block**, trying to keep the middle closed and turn the game into a transition contest, while Norway should push the tempo with width, vertical runs, and early service into **Haaland** and **Sørloth**. The key battle is whether Iraq’s narrow midfield and back line can stop Norway from feeding the box through the half-spaces, or whether **Kevin Yakob** and **Ali Jasim** can spring counters into the space Norway leaves behind when its fullbacks and wide players advance. Iraq’s best route is to stay disciplined, limit cheap turnovers, and survive set pieces and second balls; Norway’s edge is simple: sustain pressure, isolate Iraq’s defenders in the box, and let its front line punish any lapse in shape. With the market heavily favoring Norway, the match likely hinges on whether Iraq can keep it scoreless deep enough to make Norway force the issue and open cracks.
