Erling Haaland unleashes a ferocious World Cup debut to shatter Iraqi dreams in Boston

16.06.26 FT World Cup

Iraq

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Norway

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Erling Haaland inspired his squad to a 4-1 victory over Iraq early Wednesday at Foxborough Stadium by unleashing a brilliant attacking masterclass.

The much anticipated global debut of Erling Haaland did not disappoint. The lethal forward struck twice in first half, immediately propelling himself to the top of the Golden Boot race alongside Kylian Mbappe.

His opening goal in the 29 minute settled early tournament nerves and he ruthlessly restored the advantage just before the halftime whistle to completely shift the momentum.

Heartbreak despite massive courage

Despite facing a daunting 62% possession deficit, the Iraqi side refused to surrender without a massive fight.

Making their first World Cup appearance in four decades, the Lions of Mesopotamia displayed incredible tactical bravery. Striker Aymen Hussein sent the stadium into absolute delirium in the 39 minute rising high to smash home a spectacular equalizing header that temporarily stunned the European favorites.

Aerial dominance seals the deal

The physical disparity eventually took its toll on Jesus Casas' men in second half. Norway capitalized heavily on their distinct height advantage, effectively putting the game entirely out of reach when substitute Leo Ostigard headed home a devastating third goal in the 76 minute.

An unfortunate Iraqi own goal deep into stoppage time compounded the final scoreline leaving the result looking far more lopsided than the actual run of play suggested.

Group I takes shape

This heavy victory places the Nordic side at the very summit of Group I edging out France on goal difference following Les Bleus' 3-1 triumph over Senegal.

The stage is now perfectly set for a blockbuster European clash between the group leaders. Meanwhile, Iraq and Senegal face an immediate do or die scenario in matchday two to keep their knockout stage dreams alive.

A milestone four decades in the making

While the heavy defeat stings for Iraqi supporters, Aymen Hussein's magnificent first half header carries immense historical weight.

That strike was only the second goal Iraq has ever scored at a FIFA World Cup. It arrived exactly 40 year after the late, great Iraqi football legend Ahmed Radhi scored their very first tournament goal against Belgium during the 1986 edition in Mexico.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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