Gabonese referee Pierre Atcho to officiate Norway's World Cup opener against Iraq

Pierre Atcho of Gabon will take charge of Norway’s opening 2026 World Cup match against Iraq in Group I, with kick-off scheduled for 11pm UK time at Boston Stadium.

Atcho brings considerable continental experience to the role, having officiated several high-profile Africa Cup of Nations fixtures. Among them was the Senegal vs Egypt semi-final, which Senegal won 1-0, and Egypt’s 3-1 victory over Benin in a match that extended to 120 minutes. Across those AFCON appearances, Atcho has averaged more than 4.5 bookings per game and has issued a penalty or red card once every 2.5 matches.

Fellow Gabonese officials Boris Ditsoga and Amos Abeigne Ndong will serve as assistant referees, while Egypt’s Amin Mohamed Omar and Mahmoud Abouregal will oversee VAR, which will also be used to implement two new rules introduced for this tournament.

Norway arrive at the 48-team competition in formidable shape. Under head coach Stale Solbakken, they swept through World Cup qualifying with a perfect 24 points from 24, capping the campaign with 4-1 wins over Estonia and Italy in their final two fixtures. The squad features Erling Haaland leading the attack alongside a core of Premier League talent, drawing widespread attention ahead of the tournament.

Iraq represent Norway’s first obstacle in Group I as both nations look to establish early momentum in the competition.