Haaland double gets Norway off to winning start against Iraq

Norway claimed a 4-1 win over Iraq in their World Cup Group I opener on Tuesday, with star striker Erling Haaland scoring twice on his World Cup debut.

Erling Haaland (2nd R) of Norway watches the ball after shooting during the group I match between Norway and Iraq at the FIFA World Cup 2026 at Boston Stadium in Boston, the United States, June 16, 2026. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

It was Norway's first appearance at a World Cup finals since 1998, and Iraq's first in 40 years.

Haaland opened his World Cup scoring account in the 29th minute by tapping in a low cross at the far post with his left foot. Iraq leveled 10 minutes later as Aymen Hussein headed home from an Amir Alammari cross.

However, Haaland put Norway back ahead in the 43rd minute. The Manchester City forward put pressure on Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan, whose attempted clearance cannoned off Haaland's shin and into the net.

Iraq searched for another equalizer. Ibrahim Bayesh's close-range volley was deflected onto the upright, Ali Alhamadi raced clear and rolled an effort wide, and Akam Hashim volleyed narrowly over from the edge of the box.

The Lions of Mesopotamia kept battling in the second half as Hussein had several attempts but failed to score.

Norway extended its lead in the 76th minute when substitute Leo Ostigard headed in from a corner.

Haaland came close to completing a hat-trick on his World Cup debut, but saw his shot saved by Hassan.

Hussein's own goal in stoppage time secured Norway's comfortable win.