Norway celebrated their first World Cup appearance in 28 years with a 4-1 win over Iraq in Group I at Boston Stadium, although the final score did not fully reflect how competitive the contest was for long periods.
Making their first appearance at the tournament in four decades, Iraq began confidently and matched their European opponents throughout the opening stages. Chances were limited, but the newcomers looked comfortable and prevented Norway from finding any rhythm during the first 25 minutes.
The breakthrough eventually arrived just 58 seconds after the first-half hydration pause. David Moller Wolfe surged forward down the left flank and delivered a low ball across the area, where Erling Haaland arrived at the far post to convert and hand Norway the lead.
Iraq hit back before Haaland strikes again
Iraq responded impressively and earned a deserved equaliser six minutes before the interval. Amir Al-Ammari’s delivery into the box was met by Aymen Hussein, whose powerful downward header found the corner of the net.
The score remained level for only four minutes. A costly mistake from goalkeeper Jalal Hassan gifted Norway a second goal when Haaland pressed aggressively inside the six-yard area, blocking a clearance attempt and watching the ball bounce into the net.
Despite falling behind again, Iraq finished the opening period strongly. Ibrahim Bayesh saw a volley take a deflection and drift wide, while Ali Al-Hamadi was denied space by Kristoffer Ajer inside the penalty area. Akam Hashim then came close with a spectacular strike from 20 yards that flew narrowly over the crossbar.
Historic moment for Iraq after the restart
The second half brought a notable milestone for Iraq. Substitute Zidan Iqbal, born in Manchester, became the first men’s World Cup player of Pakistani heritage to feature in the competition.
Iraq continued to compete with determination, but Norway gradually gained greater control as the match moved into its final stages. The Scandinavians looked increasingly dangerous from set pieces and wide areas, forcing their opponents deeper into their own half.
Haaland also chased a hat-trick on his World Cup debut and came close to completing it, only for Hassan to produce an important save late in the contest.
Norway pull away late on
With 14 minutes remaining, Norway finally created breathing room. Martin Odegaard’s corner found substitute Leo Ostigard, who powered a header into the net to extend the advantage.
Deep into stoppage time, Haaland was involved again. His looping header travelled across the goal and was turned into his own net by Hussein, adding a fourth goal for Norway and putting the result beyond any doubt.
The Manchester City striker finished with two goals, taking his international tally to 57 goals in 51 appearances. Norway’s victory also carried wider significance, as it became the first win recorded by a European nation against opposition from the Asian Football Confederation at this World Cup. For Iraq, meanwhile, the search for a first point in World Cup history continues.
