Sports

Haaland Scores Brace as Norway Defeat Iraq 4-1 in World Cup Opener

 

Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 on Tuesday to make a winning start to their FIFA World Cup campaign.

The Manchester City striker netted his first-ever World Cup goals, taking his international tally to 57 goals in 51 appearances.

Haaland opened the scoring in the 29th minute before Iraq equalised through Aymen Hussein’s header 10 minutes later.

The Norwegian striker restored his side’s lead before halftime after capitalising on a defensive error by Iraq.

Substitute Leo Ostigard extended Norway’s advantage in the 76th minute with a header, while an own goal by Hussein deep into stoppage time sealed the victory.

The result leaves Norway top of Group I on goal difference, level on three points with France, who defeated Senegal 3-1 earlier in the day.

Norway, making their first World Cup appearance since 1998, will face France in their next group match on June 22.

Olayinka Babatunde

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