Erling Haaland scores twice on World Cup debut as Norway cruise past Iraq

• Erling Haaland scored twice in a 4-1 win over Iraq on his FIFA World Cup debut
• The Manchester City striker netted his first World Cup goal after 29 minutes
• Norway made a winning start to their campaign ahead of games against Senegal and France

Erling Haaland finally made his long-awaited FIFA World Cup debut count as the Norway striker scored twice in a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq on Tuesday.

One of the most prolific forwards of his generation, Haaland had never previously appeared at a World Cup after Norway failed to qualify for the tournament since 1998. The 25-year-old wasted little time making his mark, opening his World Cup account after 29 minutes before adding a second later in the match.

Speaking before the tournament, Haaland admitted World Cup football had been the missing piece in an already decorated career that has included multiple major honours with Manchester City.

“It felt missing in 2022 in Qatar and also in the Euros in 2024. So now it finally happened, and it was about time,” he told ESPN.

Haaland’s first World Cup goal arrived shortly after a hydration break when he converted a low cross from David Møller Wolfe to put Norway ahead.

Iraq briefly restored parity through Aymen Hussein, whose well-taken header gave the underdogs hope of an upset. However, Norway quickly regained control and Haaland punished a costly mistake from goalkeeper Jalal Hassan.

Attempting to play out from the back, Hassan was caught in possession by the alert striker, who intercepted the ball and rolled it into an empty net to restore Norway’s advantage.

Kristian Thorstvedt added a late fourth goal before the final whistle, with Haaland credited with the assist as Norway completed an impressive opening performance.

The goals were Haaland’s 56th and 57th for Norway, further extending his record as the country’s all-time leading scorer. They also saw him equal Norway’s record for most World Cup goals, previously held by former midfielder Kjetil Rekdal.

Norway will now look to build on their strong start when they face Senegal in New Jersey on June 22 before taking on tournament favourites France in Foxborough on June 26.

For Iraq, appearing at just their second World Cup after their debut in 1986, there were still positive moments despite the defeat. A passionate travelling support created a vibrant atmosphere throughout the match, with many fans gathered behind one of the goals as their side competed on football’s biggest stage.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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