Erling Haaland scored his first FIFA World Cup goals as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 on Tuesday, marking a winning start to their first major tournament appearance in 26 years.
The Manchester City striker opened the scoring in the 29th minute in Boston, converting from close range after a dangerous attack down the left flank. However, Iraq responded strongly and equalized 10 minutes later through captain Aymen Hussein, who powered home a header.
Haaland Leads Norway to Victory
Norway regained control before halftime when Haaland capitalized on a defensive mistake to score his second goal of the match. The strike took his international tally to an impressive 57 goals in just 51 appearances.
The Scandinavian side continued to dominate after the break. Substitute Leo Ostigard made an immediate impact by heading in Norway’s third goal shortly after coming on, effectively ending Iraq’s hopes of a comeback.
Norway added a fourth goal deep into stoppage time when Hussein accidentally turned the ball into his own net.
Norway Top Group I
The victory puts Norway at the top of Group I on goal difference, level on three points with France after their 3-1 win over Senegal earlier in the day.
Norway will now prepare for a crucial clash against France in New Jersey on June 22.
Iraq’s Long Road to the World Cup
Despite the defeat, Iraq’s qualification for the tournament remains a remarkable achievement. They became the 48th and final team to secure a place at the World Cup in March after a demanding 21-match qualification campaign that lasted 867 days.
Hussein, who scored the decisive goal in Iraq’s playoff victory over Bolivia, faced further challenges before the tournament after being questioned for several hours by U.S. immigration officials upon arrival with the squad.
The match marked Iraq’s first World Cup appearance since 1986. Their only previous participation ended with defeats in all three group-stage matches.
Golden Generation Raises Expectations
Norway are appearing at the World Cup for the first time since 1998. Head coach Stale Solbakken was part of the Norwegian squad that famously defeated Brazil during that tournament before reaching the Round of 16.
After an impressive qualifying campaign that included two emphatic victories over Italy, Norway arrived in North America with growing confidence. The team is led by a talented generation featuring Haaland and Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard.
Solbakken predicted Haaland would have a major influence at his first international tournament, and the striker quickly justified those expectations with a match-winning performance.
Antonio Nusa played a key role in Norway’s attack, causing constant problems for Iraq’s defense. His brilliant run and pass released David Moller Wolfe, whose low cross was converted by Haaland for the opening goal.
Although Iraq showed resilience by drawing level through Hussein’s header, costly defensive mistakes ultimately proved decisive as Norway secured a convincing opening victory.
