Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway beat Iraq 4-1 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I opener at Boston Stadium. Norway returned to the men’s World Cup for the first time since 1998 and started with three points.
Haaland scored both of Norway’s first-half goals after Iraq had caused problems early in the match. Leo Østigård added the third after the break, before an Aymen Hussein own goal completed the scoring in added time.
Haaland scores on World Cup debut
Norway took the lead in the 29th minute after Antonio Nusa carried the ball through midfield and released David Møller Wolfe on the left. Wolfe’s low cross found Haaland, who finished from close range at the back post.
Iraq responded quickly and deserved their equaliser. Ali Jasim helped create the chance from the left, and Amir Al-Ammari’s cross was headed in by Hussein.
The goal gave Iraq confidence and briefly put Norway under pressure. But the equaliser lasted only four minutes, with Haaland closing down goalkeeper Jalal Hassan and forcing the ball into the net for his second goal.
Iraq test Norway in first half
Iraq caused Norway problems despite the final score. They pressed aggressively, created early chances and almost reached half-time level.
Bayesh had a close-range effort blocked by Møller Wolfe, while Al-Hamadi’s shot deflected just wide. Hashim also went close with a volley from the edge of the box.
Norway still led at half-time because of Haaland’s finishing and pressure. The striker scored on his World Cup debut after already scoring on his debuts in the Bundesliga, Premier League and Champions League.
Norway take control after break
Iraq started the second half with energy and almost scored again through Ali. Norway then improved and began to keep the ball better. Martin Ødegaard became more involved after a quiet first half. His corner in the 76th minute found Østigård, who headed in Norway’s third goal.
Haaland almost completed a hat-trick late in the match after cutting out a weak back-pass. Norway’s fourth came in added time when Hussein turned the ball into his own net after Norway pushed forward in the box.
Norway lead Group I early
Norway moved top of Group I on goal difference after the first round of matches. France also won their opener, beating Senegal 3-1.
Norway will next face Senegal, while Iraq will play France. Iraq created chances and tested Norway, but the defeat leaves them needing points in their next match.
