Erling Haaland delivered an impressive performance in his World Cup debut, leading Norway to a 4-1 victory over Iraq in their Group I opener at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough. The Manchester City striker showcased his skills by scoring two goals, contributing significantly to a dominant team display.

Norway's Strong Start

Norway kicked off their World Cup 2026 campaign with a convincing win, and Haaland was the standout player of the match. He played the full 90 minutes, finding the back of the net twice as Norway scored two goals in each half. His clinical finishing was a key factor in the team's success against Iraq.

Clinical Finishing and Impact

Haaland's performance was marked by efficiency, as he attempted five shots, hitting the target four times. Both of his goals came from inside the box, showcasing his ability to convert chances with both feet. His expected goals (xG) total was 1.85, closely aligning with his expected goals on target (xGOT) of 1.90. Despite missing two significant chances, his overall finishing was effective, highlighted by a 40 percent conversion rate.

All-Around Contribution

Beyond scoring, Haaland excelled in duels, winning seven of nine total contests and successfully completing all three aerial challenges. He was involved in the game with 20 touches, maintaining a direct role in the attack. Although he lost possession six times, he was rarely dispossessed in critical areas. His passing was limited, with four accurate passes out of nine attempts, but he contributed a key pass and demonstrated solid ball-carrying ability.

Overall, Haaland's performance against Iraq not only highlighted his scoring prowess but also his all-around contribution to Norway's victory, earning him an 8.1 rating from Sofascore.