New Jersey, Jun 17 (V7N) – Norway marked its return to the FIFA World Cup after a 28-year absence with an impressive 4-1 victory over Iraq in a Group I clash on Wednesday, powered by a brace from star striker Erling Haaland.
Playing at New Jersey Stadium in New York, the Nordic side made a strong statement in its first World Cup appearance since the 1998 tournament.
Norway took the lead in the 29th minute when Haaland converted a cross from David Müller with a simple finish from close range. Iraq responded ten minutes later as Aymen Hussein headed home Amir Al Ammari’s cross to bring the match level.
However, Norway regained the advantage before halftime. In the 43rd minute, Iraqi goalkeeper Jalal Hassan's attempted clearance struck Haaland and deflected into the net, giving the Manchester City forward his second goal of the match and restoring Norway’s lead.
The Norwegians maintained control throughout the second half and continued to create chances. Defender Leo Skiri Østigård extended the lead in the 76th minute, putting the result beyond doubt.
Iraq’s troubles deepened in the closing moments when Aymen Hussein inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, sealing a comprehensive 4-1 victory for Norway.
The emphatic win reinforces Norway’s reputation as one of the tournament’s potential dark horses and gives the team an ideal start to its World Cup campaign.
Norway will face Senegal in its second Group I match on June 23. The match is scheduled to kick off at 6:00 a.m. Bangladesh time.
END/SMA/AJ
