Norway's prolific striker Erling Haaland scored two goals in his World Cup debut, guiding his team to a commanding 4-1 Group I victory over Iraq in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
Norway, returning to the tournament after a 28-year absence, took the lead in the 29th minute. Haaland beat his markers at the far post, stabbing in a low cross from David Moller Wolfe.
Iraq, back in the World Cup for the first time in 40 years, responded with a stunning equalizer ten minutes later. Aymen Hussein rose above three defenders to head in an Amir Al Ammari cross.
The parity was short-lived. Haaland capitalized on a weak back pass to Jalal Hassan. The Iraqi keeper’s clearance struck Haaland, with the ball rebounding off his knee into the net for his 57th international goal in 51 matches.
The forward needed just 11 touches in the first half to secure a halftime lead. Norway sealed their victory in the 76th minute with a glancing header from substitute Leo Ostigard, before an own goal from Hussein deep in stoppage time finalized the scoreline.
Norway next plays Senegal, while Iraq faces 2018 champions France.