Who is Leo Ostigard? Genoa defender who scored in Norway’s FIFA World Cup return after 28 years
(Courtesy : Getty)
Landslaget secured a 4-1 win over Iraq in their World Cup opener tonight.
Norway sealed a dominant win over Iraq in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I clash at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on June 16. Leo Ostigard’s 76th-minute strike sealed the victory for the European side in their return to FIFA’s flagship tournament after an absence of 28 years.
Erling Haaland’s first-half brace was cut down by Aymen Hussein’s brilliant header, making for a tight second half. However, the Landslaget took control in the final 15 minutes. Their third goal, which put the result beyond any doubt, was the result of a clinical move.
Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard floated in an accurate corner into the middle of the box, which was met by Ostigard, who came on as a substitute just three minutes earlier. The defender’s bullet header gave Jalal Hassan no chance, flying past the goalkeeper into the back of the net.
This marked only the second international goal for the Norwegian centre-back and sealed the win for his national team. An injury-time own goal from Hussein confirmed a big win for the Landslaget.
Also Read: Who is Emam Ashour? Egypt attacker who scored vs Belgium in FIFA World Cup 2026
Leo Ostigard Profile
- Age: 26
- Position: Centre-back
- Club: Genoa (Italy)
Ostigard started his career in 2017, signing a three-year contract with local club Molde FK. He was signed a year later by Brighton and immediately loaned to FC St. Pauli, where he played 28 matches. He went on loan three more times, representing Coventry City, Stoke City, and Genoa.
Napoli signed him permanently in 2022, and he played 32 times in two seasons for the Partenopei. He then moved to the French side Rennes, but after losing his role in the starting lineup, he was loaned to Hoffenheim and Genoa.
After a successful loan spell, Il Grifone signed him permanently in the winter transfer window. He finished the season with 31 appearances across all competitions, scoring five goals and registering one assist.
The defender made his international debut in 2022. Since then, he has earned 39 caps, with two goals to his name. Interestingly, he has been booked only three times while representing his national team and is yet to be sent off.
Who is Leo Ostigard?
He is a 26‑year‑old centre‑back who plays for Genoa in Italy’s Serie A and the Norwegian national team.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.