Key Takeaways:
- Erling Haaland scored twice on his FIFA World Cup debut as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 at the Gillette Stadium
- Norway notched their largest ever World Cup finals victory on their return after a 28-year absence
- Iraq’s search for a first World Cup win continues
Match Analysis
Norway made a memorable return to FIFA World Cup action after nearly three decades away, delivering a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq at the Gillette Stadium. Erling Haaland marked his World Cup debut with two goals, helping his national side to their biggest ever win at the tournament finals.
The match kicked off in energetic fashion on a clear evening in Boston. Norway struck first in the 28th minute with a fluent attacking move, as David Moller Wolfe delivered a precise low cross to the back post for Haaland to score his first ever World Cup goal with a straightforward finish.
An opening match win for Norway 🇳🇴#FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 17, 2026
Iraq’s Response and First Half Drama
Despite falling behind, Iraq responded quickly. Ten minutes after conceding, Amir Al-Ammari advanced down the left and lifted a cross towards the far post, where Aymen Hussein powered home a header to draw the sides level and ignite Iraqi hopes.
However, Norwegian fortunes were restored just before the interval following a costly error from Iraq. Zaid Tahseen’s seemingly harmless backpass was mishandled by goalkeeper Jalal Hassan, giving Haaland the opportunity to charge down the attempted clearance and restore Norway’s lead.
Undeterred, Iraq pressed for an equaliser in the closing minutes of the first half. Ali Al-Hamadi and Ibrahim Bayesh both came close, but were denied by resilient Norwegian defending, while Akam Hashim volleyed narrowly over seconds before the half-time whistle.
Second Half: Norway Seal the Points
The early second half saw a lull in action, with both teams struggling to create notable chances. It was not until the 76th minute that the breakthrough came. Substitute Leo Ostigard, on for Norway, met Martin Odegaard’s corner with a well-placed header, extending the lead and ending any hopes of an Iraqi comeback.
Norway’s victory was further confirmed in the closing stages when a misfortune for Iraq saw Aymen Hussein inadvertently deflect the ball into his own net after competing with Kristian Thorstvedt on the goal line, bringing Norway’s tally to four.
Key Player and Match Statistics
With this win, Norway celebrated their triumphant return to the tournament, while Iraq’s quest for a first ever World Cup finals victory continues.
| Team | Goals | Goal Scorers |
|---|---|---|
| Norway | 4 | Haaland (28′, 43′), Leo Ostigard (76′), Aymen Hussein (own goal, 90’+6′) |
| Iraq | 1 | Aymen Hussein (38′) |
