Erling Haaland delivered a near-perfect start to his World Cup 2026 campaign, scoring twice as Norway opened Group I with a commanding victory over Iraq on Wednesday morning local time. The Manchester City striker was named Man of the Match after leading Norway to a result that marked their first World Cup finals win since 1998 and ended a 28-year absence from the tournament.
Haaland, 25, entered the competition under intense global scrutiny as one of football’s most feared forwards, and he quickly lived up to expectations. After a relatively quiet opening spell, he broke the deadlock in the 29th minute, timing his run to perfection to meet David Moller Wolfe’s low cross and finish from close range.
Iraq responded strongly and equalized in the 39th minute through Aymen Hussein, who rose to head in Amir Al Ammari’s delivery and briefly lifted momentum for the underdogs.
However, Norway regained control before halftime when Haaland pounced on a defensive error, reacting quickly to a loose backpass and bundling the ball past goalkeeper Jalal Hassan to restore the lead. The strike, officially credited to him, marked his 57th international goal in just 51 appearances.
Despite Iraq’s energetic start to the second half and several promising attacking phases, Norway’s physicality and structure gradually took control of the match. The breakthrough came in the 76th minute when substitute defender Leo Ostigard rose highest from a set piece and powered a header into the net.
Iraq’s hopes of a comeback were ended in stoppage time when a clearance attempt by Aymen Hussein resulted in an own goal, sealing Norway’s victory in comprehensive fashion.
After the match, Haaland said he was pleased with his debut but insisted there is more to come. “The first goal was good, the second even better. It’s incredible, and I’m proud of everyone for starting the tournament well,” he told FIFA.
He also warned against complacency as the competition progresses, noting that tougher challenges lie ahead.
Norway’s victory puts them top of Group I ahead of France, who also opened their campaign with a win over Senegal. Norway next face Senegal, while Iraq take on France in their second group match.
