Erling Haaland announced his arrival on the biggest stage with a ruthless double on his FIFA World Cup debut, firing Norway to a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq in their Group I opener on Tuesday.
Returning to the tournament for the first time in 28 years, the Scandinavians wasted little time in making their presence felt. The Manchester City superstar, who terrorised European qualifying with a staggering 16 goals in just eight matches, delivered exactly as billed despite admitting to debutant nerves.
After a measured start, Haaland broke the deadlock in the 29th minute, ghosting away from his markers to stab home a low cross from David Moller Wolfe at the far post.
Iraq, making their own long-awaited return after 40 years, refused to roll over. Just 10 minutes later, Aymen Hussein powered a towering header past the Norwegian defence from an Amir Al Ammari delivery to restore parity and spark wild celebrations among the Iraqi faithful.
But Haaland’s response was clinical. When Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan botched a back pass, the 25-year-old pounced, with the clearance cannoning off him and into the net for his second of the night and his 57th international goal in only 51 appearances. Requiring just 11 touches to bag a brace, the Norwegian talisman looked sharp and refreshed after a late-season breather.
Norway took a deserved half-time lead for the first time in their World Cup history, but Iraq continued to carry a threat. The tempo dropped after the break until substitute Leo Ostigard rose to glance home a header in the 76th minute, effectively killing off the contest. Deep in stoppage time, captain Hussein turned the ball into his own net, compounding Iraq’s misery and sealing a comprehensive Norwegian win.
Speaking afterwards, Haaland struck a note of cautious optimism. “It was not easy to be a debutant — you’re nervous — and to win on a not-so-good day is great,” he said. “To win 4-1 on an average day is absolutely huge for all of us. The next games will be much tougher. We have to play even better.”
Iraq coach Graham Arnold, whose side had battled through 21 qualifying matches and a playoff victory over Bolivia to get here, remained positive despite the result. “I think three points will get you through to the next phase,” he said. “The boys did exceptionally well in the first half, but a couple of mistakes hurt us badly. What a great occasion this has been for Iraq and so many fans here.”
Norway now turn their attention to a tougher test against Senegal, while Iraq face France in their next Group I assignment.
For Haaland and Norway, the dream is alive and the football world has been reminded once again why the 25-year-old is considered one of the planet’s most lethal finishers.
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