Iraq vs Norway World Cup: Haaland Inspires Norway to Victory

The Iraq vs Norway World Cup match delivered an impressive attacking performance from Norway as they defeated Iraq 4-1 in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I fixture.

Played at Boston Stadium, the contest featured goals, attacking football, and a standout display from Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker scored twice and played a crucial role in helping his team secure all three points.

Haaland Gives Norway Early Control

Norway started the match with confidence and quickly established control of possession. Their attacking pressure paid off in the 29th minute when Erling Haaland opened the scoring.

The goal rewarded Norway’s positive approach and gave Iraq an early challenge.

Iraq responded well and looked dangerous on the counterattack. Their persistence paid off in the 39th minute when Aymen Hussein found the net to level the score.

The equalizer brought new energy to the match. However, Norway regained the lead just before halftime. Haaland struck again in the 43rd minute to restore Norway’s advantage and complete a brilliant first-half performance.

Norway Dominates the Second Half

The second half saw Norway continue to dictate play. Their midfield controlled possession, while the attacking players consistently created chances.

Martin Odegaard played a key role in linking defense and attack. His movement and creativity helped Norway maintain pressure throughout the match.

Iraq worked hard to stay in the contest and showed determination in midfield. Nevertheless, Norway’s quality eventually proved decisive.

In the 76th minute, Leo Ostigard added a third goal to give Norway a comfortable lead.

Late in stoppage time, Iraq’s Aymen Hussein was credited with an unfortunate own goal, making the final score 4-1 in Norway’s favor.

Iraq vs Norway World Cup Match Statistics

The statistics reflected Norway’s overall control of the match.

Norway

• Goals: 4
• Possession: 57%
• Total Shots: 11
• Shots on Target: 5
• Passes Completed: 493
• Corners: 5

Iraq

• Goals: 1
• Possession: 34%
• Total Shots: 11
• Shots on Target: 1
• Passes Completed: 286
• Corners: 2

Norway created more dangerous opportunities and used possession effectively. Iraq matched Norway in total shots but struggled to test the goalkeeper consistently.

Key Performers

Erling Haaland

Haaland was the star of the match. He scored twice and constantly troubled Iraq’s defense. His finishing made the difference in key moments.

Martin Odegaard

The Norway captain provided leadership and creativity. He also contributed an assist and helped control the tempo of the game.

Leo Ostigard

Ostigard delivered a strong defensive performance and added Norway’s third goal. His contribution helped secure the victory.

Aymen Hussein

Despite the difficult result, Hussein remained Iraq’s biggest attacking threat. He scored Iraq’s only goal and worked tirelessly throughout the match.

What the Result Means

This victory gives Norway a strong start in Group I and boosts their confidence for the matches ahead.

The result also highlights Norway’s attacking strength. With Haaland leading the line and Odegaard creating chances, they look capable of challenging the best teams in the tournament.

For Iraq, the defeat is disappointing but not decisive. There are still opportunities to recover in the remaining group-stage matches.

Improving efficiency in front of goal will be a priority as they prepare for their next challenge.

Conclusion

The Iraq vs Norway World Cup encounter showcased Norway’s quality and attacking power. Erling Haaland delivered another outstanding performance, scoring twice and leading his side to a convincing 4-1 victory.

Norway combined disciplined defending with clinical finishing to secure an important opening win. Iraq showed moments of promise but could not contain Norway’s attacking threat over ninety minutes.

With three points secured, Norway has taken an important step toward qualification for the knockout rounds.