Haaland scores brace as Norway beat Iraq 4-1 in World Cup opener
Erling Haaland enjoyed a dream FIFA World Cup debut as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 in their opening Group I fixture, ending a 28-year wait for a World Cup victory in emphatic fashion.
The Manchester City striker struck twice in the first half before Norway added two more goals after the break to secure all three points and make a strong start to their campaign.
Iraq impress early before Haaland takes control
Despite entering the tournament as underdogs, Iraq started confidently and matched Norway for much of the opening half-hour. Their disciplined defensive shape frustrated the Scandinavians, while Aymen Hussein and Ali Al-Hamadi looked dangerous whenever Iraq transitioned forward.
However, the breakthrough finally arrived moments after the first-half cooling break.
David Moller Wolfe burst down the left flank and delivered a low cross that Haaland timed perfectly, sliding home from close range for Norway's opening goal and his first at a FIFA World Cup.
Iraq hit back but Haaland responds immediately
Iraq deservedly found an equaliser just before halftime. Amir Al-Ammari floated an excellent cross into the penalty area where Aymen Hussein powered a header beyond Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland to make it 1-1.
The celebrations were short-lived.
Only four minutes later, veteran goalkeeper Jalal Hassan hesitated while dealing with a back pass. Haaland reacted instantly, charging down the clearance before the ball ricocheted into the net to restore Norway's advantage before the break.
The goal took Haaland's international tally to 57 goals in just 51 appearances, underlining his remarkable consistency for his country.
Norway pull away in the second half
Iraq continued to battle after halftime and introduced Manchester-born midfielder Zidan Iqbal, who became the first footballer of Pakistani heritage to feature in a men's FIFA World Cup.
But Norway gradually took complete control. Captain Martin Odegaard delivered an inviting corner in the 76th minute that substitute Leo Ostigard powered home with a towering header to extend the lead.
Haaland nearly completed a memorable hat-trick late on, but Hassan produced an excellent save to deny him. Deep into stoppage time, Norway added a fourth when Haaland's looping header forced Aymen Hussein into an unfortunate own goal while attempting to clear.
Norway build early momentum
The victory provides Norway with an ideal platform as they seek to progress beyond the group stage in their first World Cup appearance since 1998. Haaland's influence was decisive throughout the contest, while Odegaard dictated play in midfield and Norway's substitutes helped maintain control during the closing stages.
For Iraq, the performance contained encouraging moments despite the scoreline. Their attacking intent and competitive display for long periods suggest they remain capable of causing problems later in the tournament.
Norway will next face Senegal in what could prove a pivotal Group I encounter, while Iraq face a daunting challenge against France as they continue their search for a first-ever FIFA World Cup point.
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