Boston, USA – Norway made a dream start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, defeating Iraq 4-1 in their Group I opener at Boston Stadium on Wednesday morning. Inspired by a brilliant brace from star striker Erling Haaland, the Scandinavian side announced their return to football’s biggest stage with an emphatic performance.

Playing in their first World Cup finals since 1998, Norway displayed attacking intent from the outset and were rewarded in the 29th minute when Haaland broke the deadlock. The prolific forward capitalized on a defensive lapse and calmly finished to give his side a deserved lead.

Iraq, however, responded positively and managed to level the score ten minutes later. Striker Ayman Hussein found the back of the net in the 39th minute, bringing the Middle Eastern nation back into the contest and briefly silencing the Norwegian supporters.

The parity did not last long. Just before halftime, Haaland once again demonstrated his world-class finishing ability, scoring his second goal of the match in the 43rd minute to restore Norway’s advantage. The goal gave Norway a 2-1 lead heading into the break and shifted momentum firmly in their favor.

Norway continued to control possession and create chances in the second half, while Iraq struggled to find a way back into the game. Their persistence paid off in the 76th minute when defender Leo Østigård rose highest to head home from a set-piece, extending Norway’s lead to 3-1 and effectively putting the match beyond Iraq’s reach.

The final blow came deep into stoppage time. In the sixth minute of added time, Iraq suffered further misfortune when a defensive error resulted in an own goal, allowing Norway to complete a convincing 4-1 victory.

The result places Norway at the top of Group I with three points, while France sit second on goal difference after also winning their opening fixture. Both Iraq and Senegal remain without points following defeats in their respective opening matches.

For Norway, the victory carries special significance. The nation had not appeared at a FIFA World Cup since the 1998 tournament in France, where they reached the Round of 16. Since then, Norway endured a lengthy absence from the global stage despite producing several talented generations of players.

With Haaland leading the line and a confident opening performance behind them, Norway will now be looking to build momentum and strengthen their chances of progressing to the knockout rounds. The comprehensive victory has already sent a clear message to their Group I rivals that Norway are determined to make the most of their long-awaited World Cup return.

Meanwhile, Iraq will need to regroup quickly ahead of their next group-stage encounter, as another defeat could significantly damage their hopes of advancing to the last 16.

Norway’s commanding display, highlighted by Haaland’s clinical finishing and a disciplined team performance, ensured that their long-awaited World Cup comeback began in the best possible fashion.