Erling Haaland shines on FIFA World Cup debut as Norway beat Iraq 4-1
Massachusetts, June 17
Manchester City star striker Erling Haaland marked his FIFA World Cup debut with a brace as Norway secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq, overcoming a determined performance from their opponents.
The Manchester City striker scored twice, while goals from Leo Ostigard and an own goal by Hussein sealed the win for Norway, who joined France on three points in Group I after the opening round of fixtures.
With this win, Norway climbed to first in their Group I, whereas France, who secured a convincing 3-1 win over Senegal earlier today, dropped to second place.
In the contest, Iraq started brightly and created better early chances, with Aymen Hussein heading over from close range before Ali Al Hamadi sent a shot high from distance.
Norway, however, took the lead in the 29th minute when Haaland was perfectly placed at the back post to finish a low cross from David Moller Wolfe.
The Iraqi side responded 10 minutes later as Hussein powered in a header from Amir Al Ammari's delivery, but Norway regained the advantage before half-time when Haaland pressed goalkeeper Jalal Hassan, forcing a mistake that resulted in the ball going into the net.
Despite Iraq missing several chances to level the score before the break, Norway held firm going into half-time.
The second half saw fewer clear opportunities, but Norway eventually extended their lead in the 76th minute when Ostigard headed in from a corner following Kristian Thorstvedt's effort.
Haaland nearly completed his hat-trick late on after intercepting a poor back pass, but Hassan made a quick save to deny him. However, the Norwegian striker still played a role in the final goal as his late header led to an unfortunate own goal by Hussein deep into stoppage time.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I know it's Norway vs Iraq, but as an Indian football fan, it's bittersweet. We have so much talent back home but no infrastructure. Haaland's first World Cup brace—wish we could see something like that from our boys one day. Iraq showed heart, but Haaland's pressing was unmatched. 💔
Haaland forcing that mistake from the goalkeeper was pure class! I was watching with my cousins and we were all shouting. Iraq's defense is too slow for this level. But let's be honest, Norway's second goal was a bit lucky. Still, 4-1 is a statement. India needs to learn from these small nations—look at how Norway developed talent.
Respect to Iraq for giving it their all early on. They had some good chances, but Haaland at the back post is just unfair! 😅 It's nice to see a non-traditional power like Norway doing well. But I wish FIFA would expand the World Cup even more so teams like India can get a chance, even if we just participate.
I was rooting for Iraq as an Asian neighbor. They have potential but need to be more clinical in front of goal. Haaland is a cheat code—so strong and fast. Norway vs France next will be interesting. As for India, we keep crying about cricket dominating, but look at our football administration. Shameful. This match showed what proper planning can achieve.
Haaland's performance is not surprising—he's been doing this in the Premier League for years. But that own goal at the end? Poor Hussein must be heartbroken. Iraq should've scored at least two. Nice to see Norway doing
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