Iraq

Iraq compete in Group I of the FIFA World Cup 2026, playing matches in Boston, Philadelphia, and Toronto. This is Iraq’s first World Cup appearance since Mexico 1986, a 40-year absence that makes 2026 one of the tournament’s most emotionally charged returns. Group I opponents are France, Senegal, and Norway.

Group I Match Schedule

• June 16: vs Norway, Gillette Stadium Boston. 18:00 ET (01:00 June 17, Baghdad)
• June 22: vs France, Lincoln Financial Field Philadelphia. 17:00 ET (00:00 June 23, Baghdad)
• June 26: vs Senegal, BMO Field Toronto. 15:00 ET (22:00, Baghdad)

Viewing from Iraq

For Iraqi fans in Baghdad (AST, UTC+3), the Norway opener arrives at 01:00 and the France match at midnight. The Senegal finale is the accessible slot: 22:00 Baghdad time, a manageable late evening. Iraqi football runs deep. The 1986 World Cup squad in Mexico remains legendary, and the decades since have produced waves of talented players who kept the dream alive through wars, sanctions, and exile. The current generation, blending domestic league talent with players from European and Gulf clubs, has finally broken through. The Iraqi diaspora spans Sweden, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States, and across the Gulf states.

Check Baghdad time for live conversions, or compare Group I venues and your city at whatisthetime.now.