Norway made a superb start on their return to the World Cup after 26 years. In their Group I match in Boston on Tuesday they beat Iraq 4-1. Star striker Erling Haaland scored twice to play a big role in the win. These were his first World Cup goals, and with two goals on debut he made the occasion memorable.
In the 29th minute Haaland put Norway ahead, turning the ball into the net from close range after a fine pass and a lofted ball from Antonio Nusa via David Moller. But within 10 minutes Iraq drew level. Aymen Hussein’s header brought the Asian side back into the match.
Before the end of the first half Norway went ahead again. The goal came from an error by Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan. He delayed in clearing a slow-moving back-pass coming toward him. His attempted clearance hit Haaland’s foot and went into the net. Taking that easy gift, Haaland took his international goal tally to 57 in only 51 matches.
Iraq kept fighting in the second half too. Ibrahim Bayesh’s shot was blocked at the last moment. Ali al-Hamadi was off target by a fraction. Akam Hashim’s fine volley flashed just past the post.
Then in the 76th minute substitute defender Leo Ostigard headed home Norway’s third goal from a Martin Odegaard corner. That all but secured the win for the Scandinavian side.
Haaland also had a chance for a hat-trick. But this time Jalal Hassan made a fine save to deny him the treble.
The Norwegian star did, however, play a part in the match’s final goal too. His header struck Aymen Hussein and went into the net. The referee ruled it an own goal. That goal sealed Norway’s 4-1 win.
The victory took Norway to the top of Group I on goal difference. France are second, level on three points, after beating Senegal 3-1 in their opening match. On June 22 in New Jersey, Norway and France will meet in the group’s most important match.
Norway are playing in their first World Cup since 1998.
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