Haaland scores twice as Norway opens World Cup with 4-1 win over Iraq

Erling Haaland opened his World Cup account with a brace, leading Norway to a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq in their 2026 World Cup Group I opener at Boston Stadium. The Manchester City striker netted in the 29th and 43rd minutes, marking a significant moment in his burgeoning career.

Norway's dominance was further solidified by a 76th-minute header from Leo Ostigard, capitalizing on a corner kick. The scoreline was rounded out in the sixth minute of injury time with an own goal from Iraq's Aymen Hussein, who had earlier pulled one back for his team in the 39th minute.

The match began with an aggressive tempo from both sides. Iraq had an early chance through Aymen Hussein, but Norway soon increased the pressure, creating opportunities through Antonio Nusa, Alexander Sorloth, and Haaland. The deadlock was broken when Haaland converted a low cross, giving Norway a 1-0 lead.

Iraq's equalizer was a powerful header from Aymen Hussein, but their joy was short-lived. Just four minutes later, Haaland capitalized on a defensive error, pressuring the goalkeeper whose clearance struck the striker and ricocheted into the net, restoring Norway's lead before halftime.

In the second half, Norway maintained control despite Iraq's counter-attacking threats. Substitutions bolstered Norway's performance, leading to Ostigard's decisive goal. Haaland nearly completed his hat-trick, but the Iraqi goalkeeper made a crucial save. Norway will next face Senegal and France in Group I.