Erling Haaland made quite entrance at World Cup, netting two goals as Norway crushed Iraq 4-1 in Group I opener in Boston. This marked Norway's return to World Cup after 28 years, with Haaland stealing spotlight.
Haaland struck first in 29th minute, scoring from close range. Iraq hit back fast,with Aymen Hussein equalizing Just before halftime, Norway regained lead when Haaland pounced on defensive error,boosting his international goals to 57 in 51 games.
Norway kept control in second half. Leo Ostigard,subbed in,netted third goal in 76th minute,clinching win. Match ended with own goal from Hussein deep into stoppage time,solidifying Norway's spot atop Group I,tied with France,who beat Senegal 3-1 earlier.
For Norway, this win was special. Last World Cup was 1998,when they famously beat Brazil. Coach Stale Solbakken,part of that historic team,hopes this new squad with Haaland and Martin Ødegaard can achieve more in North America.
Norway's road to World Cup featured impressive qualifiers,including two wins over Italy. They aim to maintain momentum facing France next,June 22 in New Jersey.
Iraq's journey has been tough. They clinched their spot as last qualifiers after 21-match slog spanning 867 days. Hussein, who scored playoff winner against Bolivia,faced scrutiny from US immigration on arrival,adding to challenges faced before returning to World Cup since 1986.
Despite defeat,Iraq showed grit . After conceding first goal, they swiftly equalized, with Hussein's header showing determination . They kept pressing Norway's defense, with shots from Ibrahim Bayesh and Ali Alhamadi testing keeper Ørjan Nyland.
Haaland's second came from Iraqi defensive blunder,when keeper Jalal Hassan botched back pass,letting Haaland score again. Iraq fought back with several chances,like Akam Hashim's volley just over bar, but couldn't score more.
Norway's win sets hopeful tone for World Cup run, while Iraq must regroup as their tournament journey continues…
