Erling Haaland announced his arrival on the World Cup stage in style on Tuesday, scoring twice to help Norway secure an impressive 4-1 victory over Iraq in their opening Group I match.
The Manchester City striker netted his first-ever World Cup goals as Norway celebrated their return to the tournament after a 26-year absence.
Haaland opened the scoring in the 29th minute, finishing from close range after a well-worked move involving Antonio Nusa and David Moller Wolfe.
However, Iraq responded strongly through Aymen Hussein, who powered home a header to level the score and briefly raise hopes for the Asian side.
Norway restored their lead before halftime after Haaland capitalised on a costly defensive error. Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan failed to deal with a backpass, allowing the Norwegian striker to pounce and score his second goal of the night.
The brace took Haaland’s international tally to an incredible 57 goals in just 51 appearances for Norway.
The Europeans sealed the victory in the second half when defender Leo Ostigard headed home from a Martin Odegaard corner shortly after coming off the bench.
A late own goal by Iraq captain Aymen Hussein completed the scoring and handed Norway a comfortable 4-1 win.
The result puts Norway top of Group I on goal difference ahead of France, who defeated Senegal 3-1 in the group’s other fixture.
Speaking before the tournament, Norway coach Stale Solbakken predicted Haaland would make a major impact at his first World Cup, and the striker wasted little time proving him right.
Norway will now turn their attention to a highly anticipated clash against France, while Iraq will look to bounce back after a difficult start to their World Cup campaign.
Source: AFP.
