'Dear, oh dear!' - Goalkeeping howler gifts Haaland a second goal

Erling Haaland will not have an easier goal at this World Cup as Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan's shocking error gifts the Norway striker a tap-in.

In a World Cup group stage match, Norway defeated Iraq 2-0 thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland. However, the most memorable moment was not Haaland's clinical finishing but a catastrophic mistake by Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan that handed Haaland his second goal on a silver platter. The incident occurred in the 67th minute. A long ball from Norway's defense sent Haaland racing towards goal. Hassan rushed out of his box to clear the ball but, under no pressure, completely missed his kick. The ball rolled slowly towards the empty net, and Haaland calmly slotted it home. The commentator exclaimed, 'Dear, oh dear!' as the stadium fell into stunned silence. Haaland had opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, rising above a defender to head in a cross from the right. Norway dominated possession with 62% and outshot Iraq 15-6. Iraq struggled to create chances, managing only two shots on target throughout the match. After the game, Iraq's coach admitted the error changed the game: 'Such mistakes are rare at this level, but we have to accept it. Hassan has been reliable, but today luck was not on his side.' Norway's coach praised his team's efficiency: 'Haaland proved why he is world-class. He always finds the right spot.' The victory puts Norway second in the group with three points, while Iraq remains pointless and faces elimination. Haaland now leads the Golden Boot race with two goals. Norway's next match is against group leaders Brazil, while Iraq faces Switzerland. Hassan's blunder quickly went viral on social media, drawing comparisons to Loris Karius's infamous error in the 2018 Champions League final. The Iraqi goalkeeper took full responsibility: 'I apologize to my teammates and fans. Such a mistake should not happen. I will try to make amends in the next game.' For Haaland, the goal may have been easy, but his World Cup campaign is off to a flying start. Norway has never won the World Cup, but with a striker of Haaland's caliber, they might just surprise everyone.

'Dear, oh dear!' - Goalkeeping howler gifts Haaland a second goal

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