Erling Haaland delivered a statement performance as Norway marked their return to the FIFA World Cup with a convincing 4-1 win over Iraq. The striker opened his account in the 28th minute, shortly after the first-half hydration break, before doubling his tally in the 42nd minute to put Norway firmly in control of the contest. It was a dominant showing that set the tone for their opening Group I fixture.
The match also carried a historic note for Norway, as they became the first team in FIFA World Cup history to field three players who are sons of former World Cup footballers in the same game. Erling Haaland, Alexander Sørloth, and Kristian Thorstvedt all featured in the lineup, marking a unique milestone during the 2026 tournament held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
How Norway Made FIFA World Cup History With a Unique Player Milestone Against Iraq
Norway made a rare piece of FIFA World Cup history by becoming the first team to field three players who are sons of former World Cup footballers in the same match during the 2026 edition in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Erling Haaland, Alexander Sorloth, and Kristian Thorstvedt all featured in the game against Iraq, underlining a unique generational link on football’s biggest stage.
The moment also carried a strong historical echo, as 32 years earlier at the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Norway had fielded their fathers in the same tournament. Alf-Inge Haaland, Goran Sorloth, and Erik Thorstvedt all played together in a match against Italy on June 23, 1994, making the 2026 feat a rare continuation of a family legacy across generations.
How Did Norway Perform Against Iraq in Their FIFA World Cup Opener?
Coming to Norway’s match against Iraq on Tuesday, Haaland marked his World Cup debut with a brace as Norway secured a commanding 4-1 victory, overcoming a determined performance from their opponents. The Manchester City striker scored twice, while goals from Leo Ostigard and an own goal by Iraq’s Aymen Hussein sealed the win for Norway. In the contest, Iraq started brightly and created better early chances, with Aymen Hussein heading over from close range before Ali Al Hamadi sent a shot high from distance.
Norway, however, took the lead in the 29th minute when Haaland was perfectly placed at the back post to finish a low cross from David Moller Wolfe. The Iraqi side responded 10 minutes later as Hussein powered in a header from Amir Al Ammari’s delivery, but Norway regained the advantage before half-time when Haaland pressed goalkeeper Jalal Hassan, forcing a mistake that resulted in the ball going into the net. Despite Iraq missing several chances to level the score before the break, Norway held firm going into half-time.
The second half saw fewer clear opportunities, but Norway eventually extended their lead in the 76th minute when Ostigard headed in from a corner following Kristian Thorstvedt’s effort. Haaland nearly completed his hat-trick late on after intercepting a poor back pass, but Hassan made a quick save to deny him. However, the Norwegian striker still played a role in the final goal as his late header led to an unfortunate own goal by Hussein deep into stoppage time.
(With inputs from ANI)
