World Cup 2026 news: Erling Haaland brace fires Norway past Iraq

Erling Haaland announced himself on the FIFA World Cup stage with a brilliant brace as Norway opened their Group I campaign with a convincing 4-1 victory over Iraq on Tuesday.

Making his World Cup debut, the Manchester City striker scored twice in the first half to help Norway secure an important three points and make a winning start to their first appearance at the tournament since 1998.

Leo Ostigard added a third after the break before an Aymen Hussein own goal sealed victory for Stale Solbakken's side. 

Iraq's captain had earlier equalised for his side after Haaland's opener, but Norway ultimately proved too strong.

Haaland shines on World Cup debut

Much of the pre-match attention centred on Haaland and how one of world football's most prolific goalscorers would fare on his World Cup debut.

The striker answered those questions emphatically.

Haaland opened the scoring in the 29th minute before restoring Norway's lead shortly before half-time after Iraq had levelled through Hussein. 

The goals took his international tally to remarkable new heights and gave Norway a platform they never relinquished.

For a player who has already conquered domestic football and the UEFA Champions League, the World Cup represented one of the few major stages yet to witness his goalscoring ability.

It did not take long.

Norway make statement in Group I

While Haaland grabbed the headlines, Norway produced an encouraging all-round performance.

Iraq responded well after falling behind and briefly threatened to make life difficult for the Norwegians when Hussein cancelled out Haaland's opener.

However, Norway regained control before the interval and continued to create chances throughout the second half.

Ostigard's goal effectively put the result beyond doubt before Iraq's late own goal completed the scoring.

The victory leaves Norway level on points with France at the top of Group I after Les Bleus defeated Senegal in their opening fixture.

Haaland joins World Cup stars making headlines

Haaland's performance continued a trend that has seen some of football's biggest names dominate the opening week of the tournament.

Kylian Mbappe scored twice as France beat Senegal, while Lionel Messi struck a hat-trick in Argentina's victory over Algeria.

Now Haaland has added his name to that list with a memorable World Cup debut of his own.

Bigger tests still to come

The result represents an ideal start for Norway, but tougher challenges lie ahead.

Matches against France and Senegal will provide a clearer indication of how far Solbakken's side can progress in the tournament.

For now, however, Norway can take confidence from a performance built around the qualities of their star striker.

Haaland arrived at the World Cup carrying the hopes of a nation returning to the competition after a 28-year absence.

On the evidence of his opening performance, he appears ready for the occasion.

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