Haaland scores twice as Norway beat Iraq 4-1

WEB DESK: Erling Haaland marked his World Cup debut with a clinical double as Norway secured a 4-1 victory over Iraq on Tuesday, ending a 28-year absence from the men’s finals with an emphatic win.

The Manchester City striker, carrying the weight of Norwegian expectations, delivered a masterful performance that propelled his side to the top of their group.

Despite periods of uneven play and defensive lapses, Haaland’s first-half brace set Norway on the path to victory in what was their first appearance at the tournament since 1998.

Poacher’s instinct shines through

Haaland opened the scoring with a classic poacher’s finish from David Moller Wolfe’s low cross into the box. His second goal came shortly after, as he capitalised on a weak back-pass, blocking the Iraqi goalkeeper’s clearance and slotting the ball into the net.

The 25-year-old has now scored on his debuts in the German Bundesliga, English Premier League, Champions League, and World Cup finals, underlining his reputation as one of football’s most prolific finishers.

While Norway showed glimpses of rustiness with misplaced passes and struggled to dominate proceedings fully, Haaland’s presence proved decisive.

Team effort needed for tougher tests

Iraq managed to pull one back through Aymen Hussein after Norway’s defence was caught ball-watching, highlighting areas for improvement.

Captain Martin Odegaard was unusually subdued in midfield, and coach Stale Solbakken will be keen for a sharper collective display in upcoming matches.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere had emphasised before the game that while individuals score goals, teams win matches. The result leaves Norway atop the group on three points, ahead of France on goal difference after the latter’s 3-1 win over Senegal.

Speaking after the match, Haaland expressed his delight at the result. “It’s fantastic. Everyone expected us to win and fortunately we did, no banana skins,” he said with a grin. “I don’t know what time it is in Norway, but I hope people are partying a bit.”

The victory provides a strong platform for Norway as they look ahead to more challenging fixtures in the group stage, with fans celebrating their long-awaited return to the global stage.