Haaland marks World Cup debut with brace as Norway beat Iraq

Erling Haaland made a decisive World Cup debut, scoring twice as Norway beat Iraq 4-1. The Manchester City striker brought the same ruthless edge he has shown in domestic and European football to the international stage, helping Norway announce themselves in style.

Haaland’s first goal came just before the half-hour, when he slid in to meet David Moller Wolfe’s cross from the left. It was Norway’s first World Cup finals goal in 10,220 days, a striking return to the tournament for a nation that had not scored at the finals since 1998. Even though he had only 11 touches in the first half, his impact was already clear.

Iraq briefly threatened to disrupt the script when Aymen Hussein headed in an equaliser, but Haaland quickly restored Norway’s control. He pressed hard to force a mistake from goalkeeper Jalal Hassan, then charged down a clearance and watched the ball bounce into the net. The goal underlined not just his finishing, but his desire and persistence off the ball.

A hat-trick never quite arrived, despite more chances late on. Haaland was denied by a block after another loose pass and later saw a looping header diverted over the line by Hussein. Still, the brace was enough to make him only the sixth player to score twice in an opening World Cup game.

Norway manager Stale Solbakken said he felt before kick-off that Haaland would rise to the occasion. He praised his focus and said the game never seemed too big for him. Iraq coach Graham Arnold was also impressed, calling Haaland one of the best number nines he has ever seen and warning that Norway could go very far in the competition.

That was a view echoed by the pundits. Stephen Warnock said Haaland always finds a way to get on the end of chances, while Ellen White pointed to the striker’s power and quality around the box. Ashley Williams noted that Haaland did more than score, highlighting his pressing, leadership and willingness to do the hard work for the team.

Haaland now has 57 goals in 51 appearances for Norway, one of the best scoring rates in international football history. On this evidence, his first World Cup appearance was not too big for him at all — it was exactly the kind of stage he seemed made for.