By Francis Onyach - Reporter
U.S , June 17, 2026 - Erling Haaland announced himself on the FIFA World Cup stage in spectacular fashion as Norway opened their 2026 campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq in Group I on Tuesday. The prolific striker scored twice before halftime to set Norway on their way to a crucial victory in Foxborough, Massachusetts, as the Scandinavian nation returned to the World Cup finals for the first time since 1998.
Much of the pre-match attention focused on Haaland, who entered the tournament after a remarkable qualifying campaign in which he scored 16 goals. The Manchester City forward lived up to expectations, delivering a clinical performance in his first-ever World Cup appearance.
After a cautious opening period, Norway broke the deadlock in the 29th minute. David Møller Wolfe delivered a dangerous low cross into the penalty area and Haaland timed his run perfectly to finish from close range, giving Norway a deserved lead. The goal marked the striker's first World Cup goal and settled early nerves among the Norwegian supporters.
Iraq responded impressively and refused to be overwhelmed by the occasion. Their persistence was rewarded in the 39th minute when captain Aymen Hussein rose brilliantly to head home the equalizer, sparking celebrations among the Iraqi fans and briefly shifting momentum in their favour.
However, parity lasted only four minutes. In the 43rd minute, Haaland's relentless pressing forced a costly mistake from Iraqi goalkeeper Jalal Hassan. Attempting to clear the ball under pressure, Hassan struck it against the Norwegian striker, with the ball rebounding into the net. The goal restored Norway's lead and ensured they entered halftime ahead at 2-1.
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The second half saw Iraq push forward in search of another equalizer, but Norway gradually took control. Defender Leo Østigård extended the lead with Norway's third goal, giving Ståle Solbakken's side breathing room as the match entered its final stages.
Any remaining Iraqi hopes were extinguished in stoppage time when Aymen Hussein inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, sealing a 4-1 scoreline that was perhaps harsher on Iraq than their overall performance deserved.
Despite the comfortable margin of victory, Norway were not flawless. Iraq created several dangerous opportunities and demonstrated why they deserved their place at the tournament. Nevertheless, the quality of Haaland proved decisive.
The result places Norway alongside France at the top of Group I after the opening round of matches. With Haaland already among the tournament's leading scorers, Norway have sent a strong message to their rivals that they intend to be serious contenders for a place in the knockout stages. For Iraq, there were encouraging moments despite the defeat, but they now face a difficult task to keep their World Cup hopes alive.