Norway made a sensational return to the FIFA World Cup after a 28 year absence, defeating Iraq 4-1 in an entertaining Group I encounter as Erling Haaland stole the spotlight with a brilliant two goal performance on his tournament debut. The Scandinavian side delivered a statement victory and immediately strengthened their reputation as one of the competition’s dark horses.
All eyes were on Haaland before kickoff and the prolific striker did not disappoint. The Manchester City forward opened his World Cup account in the 29th minute, finishing expertly at the back post after a dangerous cross into the penalty area. Iraq responded admirably through Aymen Hussein, who powered home an equaliser to briefly raise hopes for the Asian representatives. However, Haaland restored Norway’s advantage just before half time by capitalising on a costly mistake from Iraqi goalkeeper Jalal Hassan.
The second half saw Norway gradually take complete control of the contest. Defender Leo Ostigard extended the lead with a well placed header before Iraq suffered further misery when Hussein inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure late in stoppage time, sealing a comprehensive 4-1 scoreline. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The victory was significant for several reasons. It marked Norway’s first World Cup appearance since France 1998 and showcased the exciting potential of a generation led by Haaland and captain Martin Odegaard. While Norway showed occasional defensive vulnerabilities, their attacking quality proved too much for Iraq to handle.
Haaland’s performance also underlined why many believe he could be a serious contender for the tournament’s Golden Boot award. The 25 year old entered the World Cup after a phenomenal qualifying campaign in which he scored 16 goals in eight matches, and he wasted no time carrying that form onto football’s biggest stage.
For Iraq, the defeat was disappointing but not entirely discouraging. Making their first World Cup appearance in four decades, they showed courage and moments of quality, particularly through Hussein, whose goal represented an important moment for the team despite the heavy defeat. However, defensive lapses ultimately proved costly against an opponent blessed with elite attacking talent.
Norway’s midfield also played a crucial role in the victory. Martin Odegaard orchestrated play effectively while young stars around him ensured the team maintained control for large periods of the game. Although Haaland naturally grabbed the headlines, this was very much a collective performance that highlighted Norway’s growing maturity on the international stage.
The result places Norway in an excellent position early in Group I and sets up an intriguing showdown against stronger opponents later in the tournament. If Haaland continues producing performances like this, Norway could emerge as one of the biggest stories of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
