Erling Haaland announced his arrival at the FIFA World Cup in style on Tuesday night, scoring twice to lead Norway to an emphatic 4-1 victory over Iraq in their Group I opener at Boston Stadium.
Playing in his first-ever World Cup match, the Manchester City striker delivered a clinical performance as Norway secured all three points in front of 63,106 spectators and moved to the top of the group on goal difference.
Norway had been patient in the opening stages and eventually found the breakthrough in the 29th minute. Haaland finished off a well-worked move, calmly tapping home after being picked out by defender David Moller Wolfe.
The goal continued the striker’s remarkable scoring run for his country and marked his 51st international goal.
Iraq responded strongly and drew level in the 39th minute through captain Aymen Hussein, whose powerful header sparked celebrations among Iraqi supporters. The goal was historic, becoming Iraq’s first World Cup goal in four decades and only their second in the tournament’s history.
However, the joy was short-lived.
Just four minutes later, Haaland capitalised on a poor back pass from Zaid Tahseen, reacted quickest and rounded off the move with a simple finish to restore Norway’s lead before halftime and take his international tally to 52 goals.
The second half was more controlled from Norway, who managed the game well while limiting Iraq’s attacking threat.
Their dominance paid off again in the 76th minute when substitute Leo Ostigard rose highest to connect with Martin Odegaard’s corner and head in Norway’s third goal of the night.
Norway completed the rout deep into stoppage time when Haaland’s header forced an unfortunate own goal from Hussein, who diverted the ball into his own net while attempting to defend at the far post.
The victory gives Norway an ideal start to their World Cup campaign and places them top of Group I after France’s earlier 3-1 victory over Senegal.
For Iraq, despite moments of promise and a memorable goal from Hussein, attention now turns to bouncing back in their next group fixture.
Advertisement