Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 on Tuesday in the opening Group I match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup [1].

The result marks a significant return to the global stage for both nations, who had spent decades absent from the tournament's final rounds.

The match took place in Boston, Massachusetts, at Foxborough Stadium [2]. Erling Haaland led the Norwegian attack, scoring two goals during his World Cup debut [5]. The victory provides Norway with an early advantage in Group I as they seek to advance further in the competition.

This appearance was the first for Norway in 28 years [3]. The team entered the match with high expectations, utilizing their offensive power to secure a decisive win in the U.S. [1].

For Iraq, the match represented a return to the World Cup after 40 years [4]. Despite the loss, the match served as a historic milestone for the Iraqi national team, marking their first appearance in the tournament since the mid-1980s [4].

Norway controlled much of the play throughout the contest, capitalizing on scoring opportunities to maintain a comfortable lead [1]. The 4-1 final score reflects a stark difference in form between the two sides during the opening fixture [1].

“Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 on Tuesday in the opening Group I match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup”

The result establishes Norway as a formidable contender in Group I and validates their return to the tournament after nearly three decades. For Iraq, while the scoreline was disappointing, the participation marks the end of a 40-year drought, signaling a resurgence in their national football program on the international stage.