Haaland Scores First World Cup Goals as Norway Thrash Iraq 4-1

• Erling Haaland scored his first-ever FIFA World Cup goals as Norway marked their return to the tournament after 26 years with an impressive 4-1 victory over Iraq.

Erling Haaland marked his long-awaited World Cup debut in style on Tuesday, scoring twice as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 in their opening Group I match.

The victory was Norway’s first World Cup game in 26 years and saw them move to the top of Group I on goal difference, level on points with France.

The Manchester City striker opened his World Cup account in the 29th minute, stretching to convert a low cross from David Moller Wolfe after excellent work by Antonio Nusa.

However, Iraq responded strongly just 10 minutes later when Aymen Hussein rose highest to head home an equaliser.

Norway regained the lead before half-time after an unfortunate mistake by Iraqi goalkeeper Jalal Hassan.

A slow reaction to a backpass allowed Haaland to close down the clearance, with the ball ricocheting off the striker and into the net.

The goal took Haaland’s international tally to an astonishing 57 goals in just 51 appearances for Norway.

Despite falling behind again, Iraq continued to threaten and created several chances, but Norway remained clinical.

Substitute Leo Ostigard effectively sealed the victory in the 76th minute when he headed home from a Martin Odegaard corner.

Deep into stoppage time, Norway grabbed a fourth goal after Haaland’s looping header deflected off Hussein and crossed the line as an own goal.

The result marked a dream return to the World Cup for Norway, who last appeared at the tournament in 1998.

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Coach Stale Solbakken had predicted before the tournament that Haaland would make a “very big impact” at his first major international competition.

The striker wasted no time proving him right.

Norway’s next challenge will be a crucial clash against France on June 22 in New Jersey, with both teams currently tied on three points in Group I.

For Iraq, the defeat was a disappointing start to their first World Cup appearance since 1986, though their spirited display offered signs of encouragement for the matches ahead.