Haaland shines as Norway wins World Cup match against Iraq

Erling Haaland scored his first World Cup goals as Norway beat Iraq 4-1 on Tuesday in their first match at a major tournament in 26 years.

The Manchester City striker put Norway ahead in the 29th minute in Boston, turning in a close-range shot. But Aymen Hussein’s header brought Iraq back to level terms.

Haaland took advantage of a mistake in Iraq’s defense to give Norway the lead again before the end of the first half. This brought his total international goals to 57 in just 51 matches.

Leo Ostigard, who came off the bench, added a third goal for Norway shortly after entering the game. Norway rounded off their victory with a Hussein own goal deep into stoppage time.

This win put Norway at the top of Group I on goal difference, tied with France on three points. France defeated Senegal 3-1 earlier in the day. Norway will face the African team in their next match in New Jersey on June 22.

Iraq had a tough journey to the World Cup, securing their spot as the 48th and final qualifier in March. This came after a 21-match campaign that lasted 867 days.

Hussein, who scored the crucial goal in the play-off against Bolivia, faced questioning by US immigration officials upon arriving with the team for Iraq’s first World Cup since 1986.

Norway last appeared in the tournament in 1998. Coach Stale Solbakken was part of the team that famously beat Brazil in the group stage before being eliminated in the last 16. He also played at Euro 2000.

After a strong qualifying campaign, where they defeated Italy twice, Norway hopes this golden generation led by Haaland and Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard can achieve great things in North America.

Solbakken had predicted that Haaland would have a “very big impact” in his first major finals, and he quickly proved that right.

Antonio Nusa caused problems for Iraq with his skill, and his clever pass allowed David Moller Wolfe to break free. Haaland then stretched to direct the low cross from the left into the net.

Iraq, who lost all their group matches in their only previous World Cup appearance, did not let that history affect them. They equalised just ten minutes later.

Amir Al-Ammari made space inside the box and crossed the ball. Hussein rose to meet it with a powerful header past Norway’s goalkeeper Orjan Nyland.

But Iraq made a mistake that led to Haaland’s second goal. Goalkeeper Jalal Hassan took too long to react to a weak backpass. His clearance hit Haaland’s shin and went into the net.

Iraq responded well again, with Ibrahim Bayesh’s shot blocked, Ali Al-Hamadi missing the target, and defender Akam Hashim sending a stunning volley just over the bar.

Ostigard scored from an Odegaard corner in the 76th minute to confirm Norway's victory. Haaland almost got his hat-trick but was denied by Hassan after another loose pass sent him through on goal.

In the end, Haaland helped with Norway’s fourth goal. His header back across the goal deflected off Hussein before rolling over the line.