Team Sportstar

Erling Haaland #9 of Norway celebrates scoring his team's first goal against Iraq. | Photo Credit: Getty Images via AFP

Erling Haaland struck twice as Norway ran out 4-1 winner against Iraq in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I opener at the Boston Stadium on Tuesday.

Haaland opened the scoring in the 29th minute before Aymen Hussein equalised in the 39th minute. Four minutes later, Haaland pounced on a misjudged backpass to force the ball into the net to restablish Norway’s lead.

Leo Ostigard headed in a corner in the 76th minute before Kristian Thorstvedt struck deep into stoppage time as Norway sealed the three points on its return to the World Cup after 28 years.

Norway moved ahead of France to first place in the Group I standings because of its superior goal difference (+1).

More to follow...

Comments

Published on Jun 17, 2026