Erling Haaland marked his first FIFA World Cup appearance with two goals as Norway opened their campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq in Boston.
The Manchester City forward played a decisive role in the Group I encounter, helping Norway secure three points and move to the top of the standings on goal difference after France’s earlier 3-1 victory over Senegal.
Norway had to wait until midway through the first half before making their breakthrough. Haaland was largely contained during the opening stages, with his only notable opportunity a powerful header that sailed over the crossbar.
However, the striker eventually found the breakthrough in the 28th minute. Wolves defender David Moller Wolfe delivered a square pass across the penalty area, allowing Haaland to apply a simple finish from close range.
The goal continued a remarkable scoring sequence for the Norwegian international. It was the 11th consecutive competitive match in which he had found the net for his country since November 2024 and represented his 51st senior international goal in just 56 appearances.
Iraq responded impressively and drew level 10 minutes later through Aymen Hussein. The forward produced a superb header to beat the Norwegian defence and score a landmark goal for his nation.
The strike carried additional significance as it was only Iraq’s second goal in World Cup history and their first in four decades. Hussein’s appearance at the tournament came after he was reportedly held and questioned by authorities for around seven hours upon arriving in the United States earlier this month.
Despite Iraq’s equaliser, Norway regained control before half-time. A misplaced pass from defender Zaid Tahseen towards goalkeeper Jalal Hassan created an opening that Haaland was quick to exploit.
The Norwegian striker chased down the loose ball, got in front of Hassan and calmly finished into the net to restore his side’s lead. The goal was his 52nd at senior international level and ensured Norway carried a 2-1 advantage into the interval.
The second half failed to match the intensity and entertainment of the opening 45 minutes. With both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances, the pace of the contest slowed considerably.
Norway eventually put the result beyond doubt with 14 minutes remaining. Substitute Leo Ostigard was left unmarked as he met a corner from Martin Odegaard and powered a header into the net to extend the lead.
The Scandinavian side added a fourth goal deep into stoppage time. Haaland rose highest to connect with a header that was turned over the line by the unfortunate Hussein at the far post.
The late goal completed a convincing victory and capped a memorable World Cup debut for Haaland, whose contribution proved central to Norway’s success.
The result gives Norway an early advantage in Group I, placing them top of the table on goal difference ahead of France after the opening round of matches. Iraq, meanwhile, will look to recover from defeat as they seek to keep their hopes of progressing from the group alive.
Norway’s attacking quality, led by Haaland’s finishing ability, ultimately proved too much for Iraq, ensuring a confident start to their World Cup journey.
