▲ Norway's Erling Haaland.
Norway, making its return to the World Cup stage for the first time in 28 years at the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup, kicked off its campaign with a resounding victory.
Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 in their Group I opening match held at Boston Stadium in Massachusetts, USA.
Erling Haaland (Manchester City), who has been the top scorer in the English Premier League three times over the last four seasons, led the victory by netting two goals.
With the match scoreless, Haaland struck the opening goal in the 29th minute of the first half. After the score was leveled at 1-1, he scored again in the 43rd minute, reclaiming the lead and securing what would become the game-winning goal in today's (June 17) match.
Norway, which reached the final tournament for the first time since the 1998 France World Cup, moved to the top of Group I, ahead of France on goal difference after France defeated Senegal 3-1.
Iraq, which reached the World Cup finals for the first time in 40 years since the 1986 Mexico tournament after advancing through the intercontinental play-offs, tasted defeat in its opening match.
With Iraq's loss, the unbeaten streak of Asian nations in this tournament has been halted after seven matches.
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.