By Daily Review Online
Norway began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in impressive fashion with a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq in their opening Group I encounter at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Tuesday.
Star striker Erling Haaland stole the show on his World Cup debut, scoring twice in the first half to put Norway firmly in control.
Haaland opened the scoring in the 29th minute, converting a cross from David Møller Wolfe. Iraq, however, responded strongly ten minutes later when captain Aymen Hussein headed home a cross from Amir Al-Ammari to level the score at 1-1, giving Iraq its first World Cup goal in 40 years.
Norway regained the lead before halftime after Haaland capitalised on an error by Iraq’s goalkeeper in the 43rd minute to make it 2-1.
The Scandinavians extended their advantage in the 76th minute when substitute Leo Østigård powered in a header from a corner delivered by Martin Ødegaard.
Iraq’s misery was compounded in stoppage time when Aymen Hussein inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, sealing a comprehensive 4-1 victory for Norway.
The match marked a historic return to the global stage for both nations. Norway are competing in the World Cup for the first time in 28 years, while Iraq are making their first appearance in four decades.
Iraq will face a stern test against France on June 22 in Philadelphia, while Norway will seek to maintain their winning momentum against Senegal on June 23 in Toronto.