Kha Y Tran Norway made a great start to their World Cup 2026 campaign. They defeated Iraq 4-1 in an exciting Group I match. Erling Haaland scored twice and led his team to an important victory.
Norway showed quality in attack and remained solid in defense. They created chances, controlled key moments, and punished Iraq’s mistakes. As a result, they earned three valuable points.
For Iraq, the result was disappointing. However, they still showed fighting spirit and had some positive moments during the game.
Watch the match highlights at: https://www.youtube.com/@fifa/videos
Haaland Opens the Scoring
The match started at a careful pace. Both teams focused on keeping possession and avoiding mistakes.
As the first half went on, Norway began to attack more often. Their pressure paid off in the 29th minute.
Norway built a good move down the left side. David Wolfe then sent a low cross into the penalty area. Haaland timed his run perfectly and tapped the ball into the net from close range.
The goal gave Norway a 1-0 lead. It was a simple finish, but it showed Haaland’s sharp instincts inside the box.
Iraq Fight Back Quickly
Iraq did not let the goal affect them. Instead, they pushed forward and looked for an equalizer. Their effort paid off ten minutes later.
Alammari received the ball near the byline and delivered a precise cross into the middle. Ali Jasim Hussein rose above the defense and headed the ball into the net.
The goal made it 1-1 and brought Iraq back into the game.
At that stage, the match became more open. Both teams attacked with confidence and looked capable of scoring again before halftime.
Haaland Scores Again Before the Break
Just when Iraq seemed to have gained momentum, a costly mistake changed the match.
In the 43rd minute, defender Tahseen played a weak back pass. Goalkeeper Jalal Hassan rushed out to clear the danger. However, his clearance hit Haaland and bounced into the net.
The goal was fortunate, but Haaland was in the right place at the right time. Norway regained the lead at 2-1. Soon after, the first half ended.
Although Iraq tried to respond, they could not find another goal before the break.
Norway Stay Strong in Defense
Iraq started the second half with more urgency. They pushed players forward and searched for an equalizer. However, Norway defended very well.
The back line stayed organized and gave Iraq little space. Every time Iraq moved into dangerous areas, Norway cleared the danger quickly.
As a result, Iraq struggled to create clear chances. At the other end, Norway looked dangerous on counterattacks. Their midfield controlled the pace and helped protect the lead.
Ostigard Makes It 3-1
Norway scored a crucial third goal in the 76th minute.
Martin Odegaard delivered an excellent corner kick into the box. Leo Ostigard, who had entered the match only a few minutes earlier, rose highest and headed the ball into the net.
The goal made it 3-1 and put Norway in complete control.
It was also another example of Norway’s strength from set pieces. Odegaard’s delivery was excellent, while Ostigard finished with confidence.
Iraq’s Night Ends with an Own Goal
After conceding the third goal, Iraq found it difficult to recover.
Their confidence dropped, and Norway continued to attack.
Late in the match, Iraq suffered another setback. Hussein accidentally turned the ball into his own net while trying to stop a dangerous attack.
The own goal made the score 4-1.
Soon after, the referee blew the final whistle.
Haaland Shines on the World Cup Stage
Many fans wanted to see how Haaland would perform at the World Cup.
The Norwegian striker delivered a strong answer.
He scored two goals and caused problems for Iraq throughout the match. His movement, strength, and finishing ability were difficult to stop.
His first goal showed his ability inside the penalty area. Meanwhile, his second goal came from constant pressure on the defense.
Most importantly, he helped Norway secure a comfortable victory.
Norway Take Early Control of Group I
This result gives Norway a perfect start in Group I.
They scored four goals, collected three points, and gained confidence for the matches ahead. In addition, their strong goal difference could become important later in the tournament.
For Iraq, there is still time to recover. The team showed determination and managed to score against a strong opponent. However, defensive mistakes proved costly.
They must improve quickly if they want to stay in the race for a place in the knockout stage.
Norway, on the other hand, can be very pleased with this performance. Led by Haaland and Odegaard, they looked confident from start to finish.
If they continue to play at this level, Norway could become one of the most exciting teams to watch at World Cup 2026.
Read more: World Cup 2026: Full Schedule Guide
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