Diyala shortens official working hours for Iraq's World Cup qualifier against Norway

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Diyala Governorate has shortened official working hours for Tuesday, with public offices to operate from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., according to a provincial statement. The governorate said the change was made so residents can follow Iraq's national team in its 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Norway. Iraq will face Norway in Boston at 1:00 a.m. Baghdad time as part of the first round of 2026 World Cup qualifying. France and Senegal are also in the group. Iraq comes into the match after a 2-0 defeat to Venezuela on June 9, its first loss of 2026 qualifying. The team has recorded two wins, one draw and one defeat in four matches this year. Forwards Ali Al-Hammadi, Aymen Hussein, Muhannad Ali and Ali Youssef have featured in the attacking line for the side known as "Lions of the Tigris."