Norwegian soccer sensation Erling Haaland is making a remarkable debut in the World Cup, showcasing his exceptional talent. Haaland played a key role in Norway’s victory over Senegal, scoring twice and securing his team’s advancement to the knockout round—its first since 1998.
By scoring two goals against Senegal, Haaland has joined the ranks of legendary players such as Harry Kane in 2018. According to OptaJoe, he is one of just six players to score multiple goals in each of their first two World Cup matches. The select group includes Poland’s Grzegorz Lato (1974), France’s Just Fontaine (1958), Hungary’s Sandor Kocsis (1954), and Argentina’s Guillermo Stabile (1930). Haaland is currently on a remarkable streak, boasting goals in 12 consecutive international appearances.
At only 25, Haaland is already being discussed as a future all-time great. Meanwhile, Argentina’s Lionel Messi, who turns 39 on June 24, recently extended his record as the all-time World Cup goals leader with his 17th and 18th goals in a win over Austria. Haaland has the potential to etch his name into the annals of soccer history alongside icons like Messi.
French forward Kylian Mbappe also continues to impress, having scored his 15th and 16th World Cup goals in a decisive victory over Iraq. With four goals each in the current tournament, Mbappe and Haaland are proving to be formidable opponents.
A highly anticipated match between Haaland and Mbappe is set for Friday. The outcome will determine the top position in Group I. Both Norway and France have already secured spots in the Round of 32, each with six points. The match will take place in Boston at 3 p.m.