Haaland's Double Delight
Erling Haaland announced his arrival on the world's biggest stage with a brace as Norway cruised to a 4-1 victory over Iraq in their Group I opener at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Boston. The Manchester City superstar, making his tournament debut and Norway's first appearance since 1998, needed just 29 minutes to open his World Cup account, tapping in a David Moller Wolfe cross. He then punished a defensive error to double his tally before halftime, taking his international goal haul to a staggering 52 in 56 caps.
How It Unfolded
The match began with Haaland relatively quiet, sending an early header over the bar. Iraq looked compact until a swift Norwegian attack saw Wolfe square the ball for Haaland to slot home from close range. Iraq responded brilliantly when Aymen Hussein—who had endured a lengthy detention upon arriving in the US—rose to meet a cross and powered a header into the net for Iraq's first World Cup goal in 40 years.
But just before the break, calamity struck for Iraq. Zaid Tahseen's under-hit backpass was seized upon by the ever-alert Haaland, who nicked the ball past goalkeeper Jalal Hassan and rolled into an empty net. The second half saw Norway control the tempo, and substitute Leo Østigård headed home a Martin Ødegaard corner to make it 3-1. Deep into stoppage time, Haaland's towering header forced an own goal from the unfortunate Hussein, putting the final gloss on a comprehensive win.
Record-Breaking Machine
Haaland's performance only further cemented his reputation as a generational talent. He has now scored in 11 consecutive competitive appearances for Norway dating back to November 2024, and his international goals-per-game ratio is now better than one in one. Despite having just 20 touches all match, his predatory instincts turned the game, underlining why he is among the favourites for the World Cup Golden Boot.
“Every competition he goes into, he settles immediately. The World Cup is no different,” said a Sky Sports analyst.
Group I Picture
The win sends Norway top of Group I on goal difference, following France's 3-1 victory over Senegal earlier in the day. Kylian Mbappé also scored twice to become France's all-time leading scorer, setting up a tantalising clash between Norway and France later in the group. For Iraq, it was a harsh lesson, but they can take heart from a determined display and a rare World Cup goal.
Key Takeaways
- Haaland's lethal finishing and pressing were the difference, taking his World Cup tally to two goals after just 45 minutes of action.
- Norway's attacking depth, with Ødegaard pulling the strings and Østigård chipping in, makes them a genuine dark horse.
- Iraq's defensive lapses cost them dearly, though Aymen Hussein's header was a historic moment.
- The upcoming Norway-France match could decide the group winner, pitting Haaland against Mbappé.
- Norway's first World Cup win since 1998 signals their intent to progress deep in the tournament.
Quick Facts
Venue: Boston, United States
Man of the Match: Erling Haaland (Norway)
Goals: Haaland (29', 43'), Hussein (39'), Østigård (76'), Hussein OG (90+7')
Norway's Next Match: vs Senegal, 21 June
Iraq's Next Match: vs France, 21 June