Erling Haaland has described his FIFA World Cup debut as a proud moment after scoring twice to inspire Norway to a 4-1 victory over Iraq in their opening match of the 2026 tournament.
The Manchester City striker struck twice in the first half at Boston Stadium on Tuesday as Norway secured their first World Cup win in 28 years.
The performance came a day after Norway coach Stale Solbakken described Haaland as the “best goalscorer in the world”.
Haaland wasted little time justifying that praise, producing another clinical display to take his international tally to an impressive 57 goals in 51 appearances for Norway.
Reflecting on the occasion, the 25-year-old admitted the achievement meant a lot to him.
He said: “I think most people saw how I felt on the big screen, so I don’t think I need to tell too many people.
“But it feels good, of course, and I’m proud. I’m incredibly proud to make my World Cup debut and to win Norway’s first World Cup match in 28 years.”
The striker also praised his team’s overall display and expressed delight at getting off to a winning start.
He said: “My first goal was nice, the second even nicer, so it’s fantastic and I’m proud of everyone that we could get off to a good start.
“We were expected to win and we won fortunately. Now everybody in Norway will be happy and I hope people will party!”
Despite Solbakken’s claim that he is currently the world’s best goalscorer, Haaland was quick to play down the suggestion.
He said: “First of all, the relationship is good. You have seen that since he started with the national team.
“We have been developing a good relationship, and we have been performing well on the pitch. That’s the most important thing.”
On whether he considered himself the best striker in world football, Haaland added: “I think I’m up there.
“But I don’t think I scored the most goals this season, so statistically I’m not. I think Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe scored more goals than me. So, no, I’m not.”
Haaland finished the 2025/26 season with 38 goals for Manchester City and has scored 51 of his 57 international goals since Solbakken took charge of the national team.
Norway midfielder Sander Berge also paid tribute to the striker’s influence, describing him as one of the most dangerous forwards in world football.
He said: “Erling is so efficient and deadly.
“At any moment, he can break through for us and score. He delivers all the time. He’s ready for any challenges.”
Berge also highlighted Haaland’s personality away from the pitch.
“He is actually the most laid-back guy ever,” Berge said.
“You can’t tell he’s about to play a game until the referee blows the whistle.
“Then when the game starts, he’s at it. You can always see the hunger in him when it’s game time and there’s something at stake. He’s an animal.”
The victory gives Norway a perfect start to their World Cup campaign as Haaland continues to underline his importance to the Scandinavian nation on football’s biggest stage.
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