## Norway’s Stellar Start: Erling Haaland Drives Victory Against Iraq
After France’s commanding 3-1 win over Senegal, the opening day of the 2026 World Cup continued to deliver with an exciting matchup in Group I. Norway and Iraq squared off, with both teams eager to make an impact after long absences from the global stage. Norway returned to the World Cup after a 28-year gap, while Iraq was competing for the first time in 40 years. This match promised to deliver excitement, and it did not disappoint.
### A Balanced Encounter
Initially, Norway wasn’t dominant, with Iraq holding its ground firmly. Alexander Sorloth nearly found the net in the 24th minute but was thwarted by Iraq’s goalkeeper, Jalal Hassan, who deftly parried his header. The breakthrough came shortly after the water break, as Erling Haaland expertly converted a cross from David Moller Wolfe, putting Norway ahead 1-0 in the 29th minute.
However, Iraq’s resilience shone through moments later. A cross from Amir Al Ammari set up Aymen Hussein, who capitalized on a moment of indecision in the Norwegian defense to equalize in the 39th minute, making it 1-1.
### Erling Haaland’s Impact
The equalizer did not deter Norway, as Haaland swiftly responded. Demonstrating his sharp instincts, he pressured Jalal Hassan into an error, redirecting the clearance into the goal in the 42nd minute to restore Norway’s lead at 2-1. Just before the half-time whistle, Iraq almost levelled again when Akam Hashem’s powerful attempt went just over the bar.
The second half saw Iraq continue to assert itself, with Aymen Hussein coming close to scoring with a header in the 53rd minute. Hussein Ali had another opportunity to equalize in the 63rd minute, but Norway’s defense held strong.
### Norway’s Late Dominance
As the match progressed, Norway found its rhythm and began to take control. In the 76th minute, Martin Odegaard’s corner kick resulted in a powerful header from Leo Ostigard, extending Norway’s lead to 3-1. This goal significantly dampened Iraq’s spirits, and as the match drew to a close, Haaland almost netted his third goal but was denied by Hassan’s reflexes in the 83rd minute.
In a dramatic finish, the game culminated in a fourth goal for Norway. Kristoffer Ajer delivered a cross into the box, where Haaland’s header found its way to Kristian Thorstvedt, who finished it off, sealing the match at 4-1 in the 90+7 minute.
### A Promising Start for Norway
This 4-1 victory marks an excellent start for Norway in the World Cup, showcasing their talent and determination. Haaland’s influential performance, contributing to 2 goals, underlines his status as a vital player for the Norwegian team. Next, Norway will face Senegal, while Iraq, despite a valiant effort, will look to regroup ahead of their next game against France.
The exciting clash not only showcased the talent on display but also highlighted the spirit of competition at the World Cup—a global stage where every match tells a story.