Norway's national team started the 2026 World Cup successfully. In a Group I match, the Norwegians defeated Iraq 4-1. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Norway striker Erling Haaland stood out, opening the scoring in the 29th minute and adding a second goal in the 43rd minute. Defender Leo Ostigard scored another goal, finishing a pass from midfielder and captain Martin Ødegaard.
For Iraq, the only goal was scored by forward Aymen Hussein.
With this victory, Norway earned three points and are tied with France at the top of Group I.
In the second round, Norway will play Senegal. Iraq will face France. Both matches will take place on the night of June 23.
The 2026 World Cup started on June 11 and will end on July 19. It is being held for the first time in three countries – the USA, Canada, and Mexico – and for the first time features 48 teams. After the group stage, the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed teams will advance.
The current world champion is Argentina.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that Kylian Mbappé's double helped France beat Senegal in a World Cup match on June 16. The game ended 3-1.