Erling Haaland's World Cup Debut In Perspective As He's 'Getting Close To Zlatan'

Ahead of the World Cup, Zlatan Ibrahimović declared that Erling Haaland still had some work to do in order to "reach the freak of nature." But after the Norwegian star scored twice in Norway's 4-1 win over Iraq, Ibrahimović is singing a different tune about Haaland. 

Ibrahimović said that Haaland is "getting close to Zlatan" following Tuesday's performance. 

"It's a great start. This was what we wanted and we got it. This was all about Haaland," Ibrahimović said on FOX's "World Cup Live." 

"He might not get the assist for the last goal, but he was there and created a chance. The stars showed up and made him a lion today. This is what he gave me back. So, I might move him up my ‘King of the Jungle’ list. He's getting close to Zlatan. So, we're happy with his performance today."

Haaland, 25, has emerged as arguably the top goalscorer in the world over the last few years, scoring at an elite level with Norway and Manchester City. But he had never played in a World Cup match prior to Tuesday. And ahead of the match, Ibrahimović only had Haaland ranked fifth in his "King of the Jungle" List. So, Haaland still had something to prove.

Well, Haaland certainly showed that he's now ready for the World Cup stage. He's one of six players to have scored two goals in the World Cup, joining the likes of France's Kylian Mbappé and others. 

As Haaland put up another masterclass on Tuesday, here are some numbers to know about the Norwegian star. 

33: Haaland has now scored in 33 of his 51 matches with Norway. 

14: Norway has now won 14 straight matches when Haaland scores (all comps).

16: Norway is also unbeaten all-time when he has a multi-goal game at 16-0-0 (W-D-L).

11: Tuesday was the 11th straight competitive international match