Story perspectives

Haaland Double Powers Norway to 4-1 Win, Group Lead

6/18/2026

Summary

Haaland Scores

In the United States, Haaland scored in the 29th and 38th minutes, Norway 4-1 Iraq.
First goal came from a David Møller Wolfe cross; second after press on Hassan back-pass.
Iraq equalised nine minutes later via Aymen Hussein’s header from Amir Al-Ammari.
Leo Østigård restored lead in the 76th minute with Ødegaard’s corner.
Stoppage-time own-goal off Kristian Thorstvedt’s header sealed 4-1 win.
Result put Norway top of Group I on goal difference, level with France, and they face Senegal on June 22.

Summary

Haaland Dominates

Erling Haaland earned a 9.17 rating, the highest in the 2026 World Cup so far.
Haaland arrived in Qatar with 18 goals in qualifiers and the opener, averaging two per game.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic said Haaland is climbing his “King of the Jungle” list, nearing the Swedish legend.
Coach Ståle Solbakken called him the world’s best scorer, though Haaland noted Kane and Mbappé have more goals this season.

Summary

Norway Wins

Norway beat Iraq 1-4, its match in 28 years, ending a drought since 1998.
Norway fielded its oldest XI, 29 years 111 days, with five players—not born in 1998—including captain Martin Ødegaard.
Iraq's 1-4 loss was first Asian defeat at 2026 World Cup.
Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal) became the youngest African scorer at 18 years 143 days.
Aymen Hussein (Iraq) became Iraq's second World Cup scorer, the first since 1986.

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Haaland Scores

In the United States, Haaland scored in the 29th and 38th minutes, Norway 4-1 Iraq.
First goal came from a David Møller Wolfe cross; second after press on Hassan back-pass.
Iraq equalised nine minutes later via Aymen Hussein’s header from Amir Al-Ammari.
Leo Østigård restored lead in the 76th minute with Ødegaard’s corner.
Stoppage-time own-goal off Kristian Thorstvedt’s header sealed 4-1 win.
Result put Norway top of Group I on goal difference, level with France, and they face Senegal on June 22.

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