Norway produced a dominant display to defeat Iraq 4-1, with Erling Haaland’s first-half brace setting the tone before late goals sealed an emphatic win.
The visitors struck first in the 29th minute when Haaland found the back of the net after being picked out by David Wolfe. Norway’s early pressure was rewarded as they took control of proceedings and looked the more dangerous side going forward.
Iraq responded positively and drew level ten minutes later. Ahmed Hussein finished from close range after a well-worked move involving Ali Al-Ammari, bringing the hosts back into the contest at 1-1.
However, Norway regained the lead just before halftime through a gift that Haaland was quick to accept. The Iraqi goalkeeper hesitated after receiving a back pass, allowing the Norwegian striker to close him down. Under pressure, the goalkeeper’s attempted clearance struck Haaland and ricocheted into the net, handing Norway a 2-1 advantage in the 43rd minute.
The second half saw Norway continue to dictate the tempo as Iraq struggled to create meaningful chances. Their persistence paid off in the 76th minute when defender Leo Østigård rose to score from a Martin Ødegaard assist, extending the lead to 3-1 and putting the result beyond serious doubt.
Iraq attempted to find a way back into the game but were unable to break through a disciplined Norwegian defence. Iraq’s frustrations were compounded when Zaid Tahseen was shown a yellow card in the 86th minute for a foul.
Deep into stoppage time, Norway added further gloss to the scoreline. Ahmed Hussein, who had earlier scored Iraq’s only goal, unfortunately turned the ball into his own net in the sixth minute of added time, making it 4-1 and completing a difficult evening for the Iraqi side.
At the final whistle, Norway emerged deserved winners after controlling large spells of the match. Haaland once again proved decisive with two goals, while an unfortunate late own goal ensured the Scandinavians left with a convincing 4-1 victory over Iraq.
