Haaland Double Seals Winning Return for Norway
Norway marked their 26-year return to major tournament football with a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq in Boston, Massachusetts, on Tuesday, 16 June.
The European side took the lead after 29 minutes when Manchester City striker Erling Haaland converted David Moller Wolfe’s cross. Iraq responded remarkably through Aymen Hussein, who rose magnificently to plant a header past Orjan Nyland. It was only the second World Cup goal in Iraq’s history, following a grueling 21-match qualification campaign.
However, parity lasted just three minutes. Iraqi goalkeeper Jalal Hassan delayed clearing a backpass, allowing the alert Haaland to block the clearance straight into the net.
Norway dominated the second half. Substitute Leo Ostigard extended the advantage by heading home a corner from captain Martin Odegaard. In stoppage time, intense pressure from Haaland forced Hussein to bundle the ball into his own line, sealing a comfortable win that places Norway top of Group I on goal difference.
Despite the defeat, Iraq head coach Graham Arnold praised the clinical opposition striker, stating: “You’re one of the best number nines I’ve ever seen.”
Norway now prepare to face African powerhouses Senegal in their next group fixture.
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