Erling Haaland scores on FIFA World Cup debut in Iraq versus Norway

Manchester City’s goal machine Erling Haaland scored on his FIFA World Cup debut as he put Norway ahead against Iraq in their group stage match in Boston on Tuesday.

Haaland tapped in Moller Wolfe’s cross to give Norway the lead in the 29th minute and score his country’s 56th goal.

Although Iraq restored parity in the 39th minute, the towering Nordic striker pulled Norway back into the lead within four minutes, making the most of a goalkeeping error.

The 25-year-old had broken records in the World Cup qualifiers, scoring 16 goals and assisting a further two as Norway returned to the quadrennial tournament after 28 years.

Published on June 17, 2026