Washington, June 17 (SANA)Erling Haaland scored twice asNorwayopened its 2026FIFA World Cupcampaign with a 4-1 victory overIraqin Group I late Tuesday at Boston Stadium in the United States.

Haalandput Norway ahead in the 29th minute and added his second goal before halftime in the 43rd. Iraq briefly pulled level through Ayman Hussein in the 39th minute, but Norway regained control and extended its lead after the break.

Leo Østigård scored Norway’s third goal in the 77th minute, while an own goal by Hussein completed the scoring.

The win moved Norway to the top of Group I with three points after the opening round of matches. France is second on three points, while Senegal and Iraq remain without a point.

The result gives Norway an early advantage in the race for a place in the knockout stage as the group phase continues.