Erling Haaland marked his FIFA World Cup debut with a brace as Norway secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Iraq on Tuesday, earning their first win at a major international tournament in 26 years.
The Manchester City striker opened the scoring in the 29th minute, turning home a low cross from David Moller Wolfe after a well-worked move initiated by Antonio Nusa.
Iraq responded strongly and drew level 10 minutes later when Aymen Hussein rose highest to power a header past Norwegian goalkeeper Orjan Nyland after being picked out by Amir Al-Ammari.
However, Norway regained the lead before halftime after an error by Iraqi goalkeeper Jalal Hassan. A misplaced clearance rebounded off Haaland and rolled into the net, handing the striker his second goal of the match and his 57th international goal in just 51 appearances.
The Norwegians extended their advantage in the second half when substitute Leo Ostigard headed home a corner delivered by captain Martin Odegaard in the 76th minute.
Iraq continued to create opportunities but failed to convert their chances, with Ibrahim Bayesh, Ali Al-Hamadi and Akam Hashim all going close.
Norway sealed the victory deep into stoppage time when a looping header involving Haaland deflected off Hussein and into the Iraqi net for an own goal.
The result leaves Norway top of Group I on goal difference ahead of France, who defeated Senegal 3-1 earlier in the day. The Scandinavian side will face France in their next group match on June 22.
For Iraq, the defeat marked a disappointing return to the World Cup after qualifying for the tournament for the first time since 1986. The team had secured the final spot at the expanded 48-team tournament following a lengthy qualification campaign that lasted more than two years.
Norway, appearing at their first World Cup since 1998, will take confidence from a dominant display led by Haaland and a talented generation of players seeking to make a deep run in the competition.
