Erling Haaland drives Norway into 2026 World Cup knockouts

Erling Haaland has helped Norway reach the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup, giving the country a decisive attacking figure at its return to the tournament. His contribution has also lifted Norway to the top of Group I, ahead of France on goal difference.

The Manchester City centre-forward scored twice as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 in their opening match. The performance took his Norway tally to 57 goals in 51 appearances and established a strong start to his first World Cup campaign. Norway had already secured progress to the knockout phase before the group-stage meeting with France, with first place still at stake.

Haaland, 26, remains one of the central figures in both his national team and club sides. He joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in the 2022-23 season after earlier spells with Salzburg, Molde and Bryne. City currently value the Norway international at €200 million, underlining his status as a leading centre-forward in the game.

His international form has placed him among the tournament’s main attacking names, alongside France forward Kylian Mbappe. Norway’s progress now gives Haaland a knockout-stage platform after his productive opening appearance.