Erling Haaland scored a brace on his FIFA World Cup debut as Norway secured a convincing 4-1 win over Iraq in their Group I clash at Boston Stadium on Wednesday.
The Manchester City star wasted no time showing his elite quality on the global stage, finding the net twice in the first half to lead Norway to victory in their first World Cup appearance since 1998.
After a couple of missed opportunities to break the deadlock, Haaland opened the scoring in the 29th minute. David Møller Wolfe provided an excellent assist, finding the striker who slid in for a tap-in at the back post to make it 1-0.
10 minutes later, Iraq leveled the scoreline as Ayman Hussein rose highest to thump a header into the bottom-right corner after a perfectly-timed delivery from Amir Al-Ammari.
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The first half drama continued as Norway retook the lead in the 43rd minute after an error from goalkeeper Jalal Hassan. The 35-year-old tried to play out from the back, but was closed down by Haaland, who forced the ball into the back of the net, making it 2-1.
Iraq had a couple of chances to level the score line before the interval, but they were unable to find another goal as Ståle Solbakken’s side held on to their one-goal advantage.
Norway extended their lead in the 76th minute with Premier League winner Martin Ødegaard whipping in a fabulous delivery which was expertly met by an unmarked Leo Østigard, making it 3-1.
Haaland was denied a hat-trick in the 83rd minute as Hassan atoned for his earlier error with a brilliant save. However, an unfortunate own-goal by Ayman Hussein in the 96th minute made it 4-1, wrapping up one of Norway’s best ever World Cup result.
The victory takes Norway top of Group I, level on points with France, but ahead on goal difference. Norway will take on Senegal in their next game on Tuesday, June 23 while Iraq face another tough task against France on Monday, June 22.
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