Norway defeats Iraq 4-1 in World Cup opener with Haaland scoring twice

Norway secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Iraq in their opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Erling Haaland was the standout player, scoring two goals that showcased his exceptional skill and importance to the team. The match marked Norway's return to the World Cup stage after nearly three decades, making it a historic occasion for the nation.

In addition to Haaland's contributions, Iraq's Aymen Hussein inadvertently added to Norway's tally with an own goal late in the game. This match not only highlighted Norway's offensive capabilities but also illustrated the challenges faced by Iraq in their second World Cup appearance.

Norway's participation in the World Cup has been a long-awaited event, with their last appearance dating back to 1998. This return is significant for a nation eager to re-establish itself on the global football stage. Iraq, competing in the World Cup for only the second time since 1986, faced a tough challenge against a revitalized Norwegian side.

Haaland's performance is particularly noteworthy as it brings his international goal tally to 57, further solidifying his status as a key player for Norway. The match's outcome not only reflects the current state of both teams but also sets the tone for their respective journeys in the tournament.

Norway's strong start positions them as a team to watch as the tournament progresses, especially with a challenging match against France on the horizon. The momentum gained from this victory could be crucial for their confidence and performance in upcoming games. Meanwhile, Iraq will need to regroup quickly to secure points in their remaining matches to keep their hopes alive.

As the competition unfolds, the focus will be on how Norway builds on this success and whether they can maintain their form against tougher opponents. For Iraq, the need for strategic adjustments will be essential to navigate the challenges ahead.