Five Things We Learned From Iraq 1-4 Norway

Five Things We Learned From Iraq 1-4 Norway

Norway thrashed Iraq 4-1 in their first game of the World Cup since 1998. Erling Haaland's brace was accompanied by a Leo Østigard header and an Ayman Hussein own-goal.

Iraq managed to equalise through Hussein, but ultimately Norway's quality and depth outshone them in Boston.

Here are five things we learned from the game.

1. Haaland's Arrived

Erling Haaland has terrified defences in Europe for nearly 6 years, but we've never seen him in the World Cup.

It truly is refreshing to see one of the world's best centre forwards in the world's best competition. Before the start of the tournament, Haaland has 55 goals in 51 appearances for his country. His number for Man City speak for themselves.

Haaland bagged a brace today and looks to be a real force once again for Norway. If they are to qualify for the knockout rounds, then you can be assured Haaland will have a big part to play.

Welcome to the world stage, Erling!

2. This World Cup Doesn't Lack Drama

Over the last few days, we've seen some incredible results in the World Cup.

Today, Iraq's equaliser was scored by 30-year old striker Ayman Hussein. What you may not know is that, before entering the country for the World Cup, Hussein spent the whole day in border control.

For a man that was nearly denied entry into the country, to score in Massachusetts is the stuff of dreams, and his celebration did not lack any enthusiasm. Hussein aside, Iraq played fantastically well in the first half, and for a minute, fans may have thought there was another shock on the cards.

Stuff like this is why we love the World Cup.

3. Norway's Golden Generation

This is Norway's first time in the World Cup since France '98, and the squad is littered with talent.

Coached by Norwegian Ståle Solbakken. the side features Premier League winners in Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard. In addition to those two, the experienced Fredrik Aursnes partners Premier League proven Sander Berge in the midfield.

Accompanying Haaland up top is 30-year old Atletico Madrid forward Alexander Sørloth, and next to them is rising star Antonio Nusa.

The side is more stacked than ever before, and Norwegian fans can be optimistic about their chances of a deep run in the tournament.

4. Group I is Open

While Norway got the win today, and France eased past Senegal, Group I is far from complete.

In both games today, the "underdog" side put up a fight that suggests they will not be there to just take part. With third placed sides capable of qualifying for the knockout rounds, all eyes will be on this group as it enters the business end.

5. These Stadiums Are Lively

Football is an obscure concept for many Americans, yet they've taken to this tournament with immense pride and passion.

While not every fan is a native of the USA, it's fair to say the majority of them are. Regardless, the pre-match presentations have been electric, and the noise around the stadium throughout the game has been gargantuan.

There was an immense amount of debate surrounding this World Cup, but there cannot be much debate about what's gone on in the stands.