Norway returns to the FIFA World Cup after 28 years and begins its Group I campaign with a 4-1 win over Iraq. Erling Haaland leads the way, scoring two goals in his tournament debut to record his first World Cup goals at a major international competition. Sources also describe one of his strikes as coming after a defensive error by Iraq. Norway’s other goals come from defenders Leo Østigård and a late own goal, completing the four goals for the European side.
The result places Norway level with France on three points in Group I, according to one report. Several outlets frame the win as a strong start for both teams’ opening match in the group stage, with Haaland’s performance highlighted across the coverage. The match also sets up a potentially significant group-stage storyline later in the tournament, including a possible matchup involving Haaland and Kylian Mbappé, as noted by one source.
