Erling Haaland marked his World Cup debut with a brilliant brace as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 in their Group I opener on Tuesday at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Manchester City striker led from the front as Norway returned to the tournament after a 28-year absence and immediately announced themselves with a strong victory.
Haaland, 25, arrived at the World Cup as one of the most feared forwards in world football. He lived up to that reputation, delivering a decisive performance despite a quiet start. Norway, who had been absent from the World Cup since 1998, made a winning return thanks largely to their star striker.
Slow Start Before Haaland Strikes First
The match began cautiously, with both teams taking time to settle. Haaland had limited early involvement and even missed a header over the bar. However, his first major chance arrived in the 29th minute, and he made it count.
David Møller Wolfe delivered a low cross from the left, and Haaland reacted quickly at the far post to slot the ball in and open the scoring. It was a sharp finish that showed his trademark positioning and timing.
That goal marked another milestone in his international career. It was his 51st senior goal in just 56 appearances, underlining his remarkable scoring rate for Norway.
Iraq Respond Quickly With Historic Equaliser
Iraq responded strongly and found an equaliser just 10 minutes later. Aymen Hussein rose high to head home a superb goal, marking only Iraq’s second-ever World Cup goal and their first in 40 years.
The goal briefly shifted momentum, but Norway remained composed and continued to press forward.
Haaland Restores Lead Before Half-Time
Just before the break, Haaland struck again. He chased down a loose back pass from Zaid Tahseen, beat goalkeeper Jalal Hassan to the ball, and calmly tapped it in.
The mistake from Iraq allowed Norway to regain control, and Haaland’s second goal gave them a 2-1 lead at halftime.
Norway Take Control in the Second Half
The second half was slower and lacked the intensity of the first. At times, the pace dropped significantly, and the game became more controlled by Norway.
Despite the lower tempo, Norway still added to their lead. In the 76th minute, substitute Leo Østigård met a corner from Martin Ødegaard and headed home to make it 3-1.
Haaland had chances to complete a hat-trick but was unable to convert, including one effort saved by Jalal Hassan in the closing stages.
Late Own Goal Seals Comfortable Win
Deep into stoppage time, Norway added a fourth goal in fortunate circumstances. A powerful Haaland header caused confusion in the Iraq defence, and Aymen Hussein inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.
The own goal sealed a convincing 4-1 win for Norway and capped a strong start to their World Cup campaign.
With this result, Norway moved to the top of Group I on goal difference, ahead of France, who earlier defeated Senegal 3-1 in the same group.
Key Match Moments
Iraq created early pressure, but Norway struck first through Haaland in the 29th minute. Iraq briefly levelled through Aymen Hussein, before Haaland restored the lead just before halftime. Østigård extended the advantage in the second half, and a late own goal completed the scoring.
Haaland’s Instant World Cup Impact
Erling Haaland once again showed his ability to adapt instantly to any competition. Whether in domestic leagues, the Champions League, or international football, he consistently delivers from the start.
Despite limited touches throughout the match, he still scored twice and played a key role in another goal. His efficiency in front of goal continues to define his game.
With the Golden Boot race underway, Haaland has already made a strong early statement. If he maintains this form, he will also move closer to the long-standing World Cup scoring record of Miroslav Klose.