Iraq v Norway

The full-time whistle sounds at Boston Stadium as Norway beat Iraq 4-1 to kick off their World Cup campaign with three points. Norway took the lead in the 29th minute as Moller Wolfe’s left-wing centre was tapped in by Haaland at the back post. Iraq deservedly levelled the scoreline six minutes before the break as Al Ammari’s floated delivery was met by Hussein’s towering header. However, the Iraqi celebrations were cut short as Norway retook the lead in the 43rd minute as Haaland closed down goalkeeper Hassan before finding the back of the net. Iraq almost levelled it before half-time, but Al Hamadi saw his strike trickle past the left-hand post before Hashim’s volley flew inches over the woodwork. It was more of the same from Iraq in the second half with Ali skewing a close-range attempt at the back post before an unmarked Ostigard glanced a header past the helpless Hassan following a right-wing corner from Odegaard in the 76th minute. It got better for Solbakken’s side in second-half stoppage time as Thorstvedt's flick-on was inadvertently converted into the net by Hussein for Norway’s fourth. Iraq created 11 shots with one on target, reflected by an xG of 0.77, whereas Norway registered 12 shots with five on target, highlighted by an xG of 2.59. Norway move top of Group I, level on points with France, but ahead on goal difference, whereas Iraq sit bottom of the table. It does not get any easier for Iraq, who will face France on 22 June. For Norway, they will turn their attention to Senegal on 23 June. That concludes our live commentary of this entertaining 2026 World Cup Group I contest. We hope you enjoyed it. Thanks for reading and take care!

FULL-TIME: IRAQ 1-4 NORWAY

90'+6'

Own Goal

GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!! NORWAY GRAB A FOURTH!!! Ajer controls the ball on the right before floating a delivery to the back post. Haaland heads it back across goal with Thorstvedt's flick inadvertently converted into the net by Hussein! Iraq 1-4 Norway!

Next up for Norway in Group I is a game against Senegal, whereas Iraq have the daunting task of facing tournament favourites France...

There will be six minutes of additional time at the end of the second half.

Norway should have scored a fourth! However, Thorstvedt drags a six-yard effort wide of the upright! Haaland is not happy with his team-mate as he was free at the back post!