For nearly three decades, Norway waited for a return to football’s biggest stage. When the moment finally arrived, Erling Haaland ensured it would be unforgettable.
The Manchester City striker scored twice as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 in their Group I opener on Tuesday, marking the country’s first World Cup appearance of the 21st century with a commanding victory. The result also lifted Norway to the top of the group and highlighted their ambitions for a deep tournament run.
Both Norway and Iraq were making long-awaited returns to the World Cup. Norway ended a 28-year absence since France 1998, while Iraq returned to the global stage for the first time since 1986. Haaland wasted little time announcing Norway’s comeback.
The opening goal came after a beautifully constructed team move that began with goalkeeper Orjan Nyland and featured 14 passes before David Moller Wolfe delivered a cross from the left. Haaland arrived at the back post to slide home the finish and put Norway ahead.
Iraq responded strongly 10 minutes later through veteran striker Aymen Hussein, who rose highest to meet Amir Al Ammari’s cross and headed past Nyland. The goal made Hussein only the second Iraqi player to score at a World Cup.
However, Norway regained control before halftime when Haaland capitalised on a defensive mix-up between Zaid Tahseen and goalkeeper Jalal Hassan, restoring his side’s lead and sending Norway into the break 2-1 ahead.
The Scandinavians tightened their grip on the match early in the second half. Substitute Leo Ostigard needed just three minutes and 30 seconds after coming on to make it 3-1, powering home a header after being left completely unmarked from a corner kick.
Norway’s dominance was completed late on when an unfortunate own goal by Aymen Hussein sealed a convincing 4-1 victory.
Haaland’s brace further underlined his importance to Norway. Already boasting more than 50 international goals before the tournament, the prolific striker appears ready to lead his country on the world stage. Despite the own goal, Hussein remained Iraq’s standout performer, scoring their only goal and carrying much of their attacking threat.
The victory gives Norway an early advantage in Group I, where France and Senegal are also expected to challenge for qualification. With goal difference potentially playing a crucial role, the emphatic win could prove significant later in the competition.
After missing five consecutive World Cups despite producing talents such as Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, Norway finally have a team capable of making an impact. If Haaland continues this form, their long-awaited return may be only the beginning of a memorable campaign.
For now, Norway sit proudly atop Group I. The World Cup stage is finally Haaland’s, and the goals have already begun to flow.
