New Delhi: Star striker Erling Haaland delivered a commanding performance, scoring twice to lead Norway to a convincing 4-1 victory over Iraq in their opening Group I match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at Boston Stadium on Wednesday.
Making their first World Cup appearance of the century, Norway got their campaign off to an ideal start with a dominant display. Alongside Haaland’s brace, Leo Østigård added a goal, while an injury-time own goal by Iraq’s Aymen Hussein completed the scoring.
Haaland Sets the Tone
Norway took the lead in the 29th minute when Haaland connected perfectly with a cross from David Møller Wolfe and finished clinically to put his side ahead 1-0.
Iraq responded positively and found an equalizer ten minutes later. Aymen Hussein rose highest to meet Amir Ali’s chipped cross and headed the ball past Norwegian goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland. The goal not only leveled the score at 1-1 but also made Hussein the first Iraqi player to score a World Cup goal for his country.
The parity, however, was short-lived. Just before halftime, Haaland capitalized on a defensive mix-up between Iraqi defenders Zahid Hussein and Jalal Hassan. The prolific striker pounced on the error and calmly slotted home his second goal of the match in the 43rd minute, restoring Norway’s lead at 2-1.
Norway Takes Control
With a narrow advantage at halftime, Norway continued to press in the second half. Their persistence paid off in the 73rd minute when defender Leo Østigård, who had recently entered the match as a substitute, scored to extend the lead to 3-1 and put Norway firmly in control.
Iraq’s hopes of a late comeback were effectively extinguished in stoppage time. In a cruel twist of fate, Aymen Hussein, who had earlier been Iraq’s hero, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the final moments of the match, handing Norway a fourth goal and sealing a comprehensive 4-1 victory.
Haaland Delighted with Winning Start
After the match, Haaland expressed satisfaction with both his individual contribution and the team’s overall performance.
“My first goal was good, but I thought the second one was even better. I’m proud of everyone in the team for helping Norway start the World Cup with a win,” he said.
The striker also stressed that tougher challenges lie ahead.
“We know the next match will be even more difficult, and we’ll need to perform at an even higher level. We hoped for a winning start, and fortunately we achieved it. I’m sure people back home will be celebrating tonight.”
The victory gives Norway an early advantage in Group I and boosts confidence ahead of its upcoming fixtures. Iraq, despite moments of promise, will need to regroup quickly and seek a positive response in its next match to keep its qualification hopes alive.
With Haaland already in scoring form and Norway showing attacking flair, the Scandinavian side has announced itself as a team capable of making a strong impact at the 2026 World Cup.
