Haaland double sinks Iraq in World Cup return

Haaland bags two as Iraq fall 4–1 to Norway

Iraq opened their World Cup return with a 4–1 loss to Norway in Boston on Monday, and Erling Haaland did exactly what everyone feared he would (1). Two goals. The first came early, and from there it was an uphill climb your team never really looked like scaling.

Graham Arnold's side were outmatched by a Norway team that looked sharp and physical. Haaland scored twice, and Norway coach Ståle Solbakken said afterwards: "You can see he lived up to the occasion, it wasn't too big for him" (1). Solbakken added he had a good feeling before the match, his striker delivered.

Sørloth struggled too

One small footnote from a tough night: Alexander Sørloth had a poor game for Norway, winning just 13% of his duels (2). Football Insider called it a performance that should give Everton pause as they consider a move for the forward. Not much of a consolation, but Iraq's defence did make life difficult for Norway's other striker.