Haaland Sets Norway World Cup Record in 43 Minutes

Norwegian star Erling Haaland needed only 43 minutes to create a new chapter in Norway's World Cup history during their commanding 4-1 victory in the opening round of the 2026 tournament.

Haaland entered the match aiming to lead his national team to a strong start, but he ended up achieving much more. He opened the scoring in the 29th minute and then added a second goal before halftime, reaffirming his status as one of the most decisive forwards in global football.

These two goals not only gave Norway a comfortable lead but also allowed Haaland to match the total number of World Cup goals scored by Polish star Robert Lewandowski. Notably, Lewandowski required 630 minutes of World Cup play to reach that tally, whereas Haaland accomplished it in just 43 minutes.

Haaland's achievement did not stop there; he also became Norway's all-time top scorer in World Cup finals, despite this tournament being his first appearance on football's biggest stage.

This impressive start reinforces the expectations placing Haaland among the leading contenders for the tournament's Golden Boot. The Norwegian striker not only scores goals but also appears capable of influencing every attacking move he participates in, presenting a significant challenge for opposing defenses throughout the rest of the competition.

With this explosive beginning, Haaland sent a clear message to his rivals: Norway is not participating in the World Cup merely to appear but boasts a player who can single-handedly alter the course of matches and guide his team to the furthest stages of the tournament.