Norway Defeats Iraq in Thrilling World Cup Opener

The match between Iraq and Norway in the opening round of the 2026 World Cup group stage was filled with excitement from the first whistle, drawing significant crowds and widespread Arab interest.

Norway opened the scoring when David Müller Wolf delivered a precise through ball to Erling Haaland inside the penalty area. The Norwegian striker skillfully controlled the ball before firing it into the top right corner, marking Norway’s first goal of the match.

Haaland’s opener came after a clever assist from Müller Wolf.

In response, Iraq quickly leveled the score. A well-placed cross from Amir Al-Amari found Ayman Hussein, who met it with a powerful header that found the back of the net, much to the delight of the Iraqi coaching staff and fans.

Ayman Hussein equalized for Iraq with a perfectly executed header.

Haaland struck again shortly after, capitalizing on a defensive error from Iraq. The Iraqi goalkeeper attempted to clear a short pass but inadvertently set up Haaland, who was quick to react and slotted the ball into the net for his second goal.

Haaland made his mark once more, scoring Norway’s second goal.

This match garnered considerable attention as it marked Iraq’s debut in the tournament, competing in Group Nine alongside France and Senegal. Every point is crucial for teams vying for advancement to the next round.

Iraq’s Lineup Against Norway

Goalkeeper: Jalal Hassan.

Defense: Hussein Ali, Zaid Tahsin, Rebin Solaka, Mirxas Doski.

Midfield: Ibrahim Baish, Ali Jassim, Ali Al-Hamadi, Amir Al-Amari, Zidan Iqbal.

Forward: Ayman Hussein.

Norway’s Lineup Against Iraq

Goalkeeper: Orjan Nyland.

Defense: Julian Ryerson, Christopher Ajer, Torbjorn Heggem, David Müller Wolf.

Midfield: Martin Ødegaard, Sander Berge, Fredrik Aursnes.

Forward: Alexander Sørloth, Erling Haaland, Antonio Nusa.