When Erling Haaland found the net twice against Iraq on Tuesday night, it was more than just a dream World Cup debut.
It was the continuation of a family story that began more than three decades ago.
The Manchester City striker scored his first-ever FIFA World Cup goals as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 in Boston, helping the Scandinavian nation make a winning return to football’s biggest stage. Yet behind the goals and celebrations was a powerful connection to Norway’s World Cup past – one that carries the Haaland name.
From Father To Son: A World Cup Legacy
Long before Erling became one of the world’s most feared strikers, his father Alf-Inge Haaland represented Norway at the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States.
Erling and his father, Alf Inge, after his first ever World Cup game (and hes bagged a brace). Proud dad, proud son. Beautiful to see. pic.twitter.com/DLo9HXiZ6m
— Geronimo Morgans (@GeronimoMorgans) June 17, 2026 ">
Erling Haaland Delivers On The Biggest Stage
The spotlight inevitably followed Haaland into his first major international tournament. For years, questions surrounded whether one of football's most prolific goalscorers would ever get the opportunity to showcase his talents at a World Cup. Against Iraq, he wasted little time providing an answer. Haaland opened the scoring after 29 minutes, arriving at the back post to convert David Moller Wolfe's low cross. He doubled his tally before halftime after capitalising on a costly error from Iraqi goalkeeper Jalal Hassan. Norway eventually cruised to a 4-1 victory, with Leo Ostigard adding a third before an own goal completed the scoring. The result immediately strengthened Norway's hopes of progressing beyond the group stage.Why Erling Haaland Wears 'Braut Haaland' Jersey
The family connection extends beyond the football pitch. Unlike most players who wear a single surname on their shirts, Haaland represents both sides of his family by wearing "Braut Haaland" for Norway. The decision honours not only his father, Alf-Inge, but also his mother, Gry Marita Braut, a former elite heptathlete and one of Norway's accomplished track-and-field athletes. It is a small detail that reflects the sporting pedigree from which one of football's global superstars emerged.Norway's New World Cup Hero
Alf-Inge Haaland helped Norway compete at the World Cup in the 1990s. Erling Haaland now carries the responsibility of leading the country into a new era. With two goals already to his name and tougher challenges still to come, the 25-year-old has announced himself as one of the players to watch at FIFA World Cup 2026. For Norway, the victory over Iraq was the perfect start. For the Haaland family, it was the latest chapter in a World Cup journey spanning more than three decades.About the Author
