Haaland shines brightly in Norway's World Cup opening match against Iraq, scoring twice.

Norway's Haaland has now scored 57 goals in his first 51 international appearances for the national team. The country made its long-awaited return to the World Cup after a 28-year hiatus.

Erling Haaland, Norway's star striker, made a statement with his debut World Cup performance, netting two crucial goals in their 4-1 win against Iraq on Tuesday, setting the tone for the competition.

Making his international debut in front of a global audience, Haaland proved why he's considered one of football's most electrifying strikers, delivering two crucial goals for Norway in their highly anticipated World Cup opener against Iraq after a 28-year hiatus from the tournament.

Haaland broke free from a hesitant beginning to make an impact, having already notched 16 goals in eight qualifying matches, more than doubling any other European player's tally. His World Cup goal debut came in the 29th minute when he outwitted his markers and converted David Moller Wolfe's precise cross at the far post with a swift stab.

Haaland acknowledged the challenges of making his debut, admitting to feeling nervous beforehand. The team's convincing 4-1 victory was a resounding success, one that exceeded expectations even on an ordinary day. He expressed pride in the collective effort, hailing it as a fantastic achievement.

Scoring twice against Iraq was a significant milestone for Haaland, but he acknowledged the challenge ahead lies in upcoming matches that demand improved performance.

Iraq faced a daunting task in their return to the World Cup stage after a 40-year absence, having secured their spot through a narrow 2-1 victory over Bolivia in their intercontinental playoff match held in March.

Norway's team had been tempered by their grueling qualifying schedule of 21 matches, yet they maintained their poise when Aymen Hussein scored a remarkable equalizer just 10 minutes into the match, capitalizing on Amir Al Ammari's precise cross that sailed above three Norwegian players in the box.

Haaland seized the opportunity with lightning speed, capitalizing on a vulnerable Iraqi defense line led by Hassan.

Haaland's 57th international goal came about after a hesitant goalkeeper attempted to clear the ball, which bounced off the Norwegian striker's knee and into the net in their match against Iraq.

With renewed energy after a brief respite from Manchester City's English Premier League duties and Norway's pre-tournament preparations, Haaland burst into action, netting two goals within 11 touches in the opening half to propel his team ahead by halftime in their World Cup encounter against Iraq.

The match between Norway and Iraq was marked by intense action, particularly in the final minutes of the first half, where both teams' inexperience showed with a combined absence of 68 years from the World Cup stage.

Norway maintained momentum despite a slight dip in tempo following halftime, as they capitalized on another scoring opportunity at the 76-minute mark.

Iraq's coach Graham Arnold emphasized that securing three points would be crucial for advancing to the next round. Two matches remain on their schedule. The team performed commendably in the initial 45 minutes, yet errors proved costly.

Iraq's supporters have had an unforgettable experience tonight, as the country took to the pitch against Norway.

Norway's next opponent will be Senegal, which suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of France previously.

France, the 2018 World Cup champions, are scheduled to face Iraq in their subsequent group stage match.