FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - Erling Haaland marked his World Cup debut with a decisive two-goal performance, powering Norway to a 4-1 victory over Iraq in their Group I opener.
Returning to the tournament after a 28-year absence, Norway relied on their star striker’s clinical instincts. Haaland opened the scoring in the 29th minute, redirecting a David Moller Wolfe cross at the far post.
Iraq, back on the world stage for the first time in 40 years, responded forcefully. Aymen Hussein leveled the match with a powerful header only 10 minutes later, briefly stunning the Norwegian defense.
The parity did not last. Haaland pounced on a defensive error just before halftime, blocking a clearance from goalkeeper Jalal Hassan and deflecting the ball into the net for his second goal. It was his 57th international strike in just 51 appearances.
Leo Ostigard extended the lead with a glancing header in the 76th minute before a late own goal by Hussein sealed the final scoreline. Norway next face Senegal, while Iraq must contend with France.