Norway made a strong start to the tournament by beating Iraq 4-1 in the Group I opener at Boston Stadium. Erling Haaland scored twice, while Kristian Thorstvedt sealed the score with a header in stoppage time.
The match held special significance for Iraq. The country appeared in its first World Cup match since 1986 and briefly found parity during the game.
After Haaland’s opening goal, Iraq responded when Aymen Hussein headed in a ball prepared by Ali Jassim. This goal marked Iraq’s first World Cup goal in 40 years.
Promising Play in the First Half
After equalizing, Iraq stayed in the game and applied pressure on Norway’s defense. Iraq created multiple threats in the first half and pushed for opportunities to take the lead.
However, Norway regained the lead before halftime. Haaland capitalized on a misplaced back pass and scored from close range, shifting the momentum of the match.
Following this goal, Norway took control. In the second half, Leo Ostigard’s header doubled the lead, forcing Iraq to chase the game.
Norway’s Aerial Dominance Makes the Difference
Norway’s superiority was more evident in the final stages of the match. Thorstvedt’s header in the dying seconds extended the score to 4-1.
Norway entered the group as favorites after a flawless qualifying campaign. The squad, led by Haaland and Martin Odegaard, demonstrated their attacking prowess once again in this match.
Iraq showed promise, especially in transition play and their first-half pressure. However, Norway’s clinical finishing in the second half decided the outcome of the opening match.
With this result, Iraq started the tough group without points, which also includes France and Senegal. France had defeated Senegal 3-1 in the group’s opening match.
