Haaland brace powers Norway to dominant 4–1 win

Erling Haaland announced himself on the World Cup stage with two goals in Norway’s commanding 4–1 victory over Iraq in Boston, marking the nation’s first appearance at a major tournament since 2000. The Manchester City forward opened the scoring on 29 minutes, stretching to turn in David Møller Wolfe’s low cross after clever work from Antonio Nusa.

Iraq responded impressively, equalising through Aymen Hussein’s powerful header, but Haaland restored Norway’s lead before the break by charging down a hesitant clearance from goalkeeper Jalal Hassan. Iraq threatened again after halftime, yet Norway’s depth proved decisive as substitute Leo Østigård headed in Martin Ødegaard’s corner to make it 3–1. Deep into stoppage time, Haaland’s looping header forced an own goal from Hussein to complete the scoring. The win places Norway top of Group I on goal difference, level with France, ahead of a crucial meeting with the African giants in New Jersey.