Erling Haaland made a dream FIFA World Cup debut, scoring twice as Norway secured an emphatic 4-1 victory over Iraq on Tuesday in their first game at a major tournament in 26 years. The Norwegian striker delivered on expectations with a clinical display, finding the net twice in first half to lead his side to a commanding opening win. Norway dominated possession and created several chances throughout the match, with their attacking unit proving too strong for Iraq's defense. Iraq managed to pull one goal back but struggled to contain Norway's relentless pressure. Haaland’s brace marked a memorable World Cup arrival and underlined his status as one of football’s most dangerous forwards.Norway made an impressive start to their World Cup campaign, moving to the top of Group I on goal difference. They sit level on three points with France, who defeated Senegal 3-1 earlier in the day, setting up a high-profile meeting between Norway and the African nation in New Jersey on June 22. At 25, Haaland has established himself as one of football's most lethal goalscorers since emerging as a global star in 2019. However, despite his remarkable rise, the Norwegian forward had to wait until now for his first taste of World Cup action after Norway failed to qualify for the tournament since their last appearance in 1998.— WorldCupMedia (@WorldCupMedia) For Iraq, reaching the tournament itself had been a remarkable achievement. Their qualification journey lasted 867 days and stretched over 21 matches before they finally secured the final place at the World Cup in March. Playing in their first tournament since 1986, they entered the competition determined to prove they belonged on football’s biggest stage.Norway struck first after 29 minutes through Haaland. Antonio Nusa caused problems with his direct running and released David Moller Wolfe down the left flank. Wolfe delivered a dangerous low ball into the area and Haaland stretched to guide it home from close range.— LxoMessismoFCB (@LxoMessismoFCB) Iraq refused to retreat and found an equaliser ten minutes later. Amir Al-Ammari delivered a precise cross into the penalty area, where Aymen Hussein rose above the defence to send a powerful header beyond goalkeeper Orjan Nyland.The contest shifted again shortly before the break after Iraq gifted Norway another opportunity. Goalkeeper Jalal Hassan reacted slowly to a weak backpass and his attempted clearance struck Haaland before bouncing into the net, handing the Norwegian striker his second goal of the evening and his 57th international goal in only 51 appearances.— WC2026Arena (@WC2026Arena) Iraq continued to search for another response in the second half. Ibrahim Bayesh saw a promising effort blocked, Ali Al-Hamadi dragged a shot wide and Akam Hashim came close with a volley that flew just over the crossbar.Norway effectively ended the contest in the 76th minute when substitute Leo Ostigard powered in a header from Martin Odegaard's corner. Haaland later came close to completing his hat-trick after another defensive mistake sent him through on goal, but Hassan recovered to deny him.— ErlingHaaland (@ErlingHaaland) There was still time for Norway to add a fourth in stoppage time. Haaland's looping header across goal took a touch off Hussein and rolled over the line for an own goal, completing a convincing victory for the Scandinavians.Coach Stale Solbakken, who was part of Norway's memorable 1998 squad that stunned Brazil, will view the dominant opening display as an encouraging sign of his team's ambitions at this World Cup.