Erling Haaland maintained his strong international scoring record by netting two goals as Norway started their UEFA Nations League campaign with a 3-2 win against Denmark in Oslo.
The Manchester City forward had found the net seven times during Norway’s historic World Cup run before they lost to England in the quarter-finals. He marked his first international outing since that competition with a brace, including the winning goal.
Haaland spearheads Norway attack
Norway began brightly, with Fulham attacker Oscar Bobb breaking the deadlock after latching onto a pass from Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard. Bobb curled a fine effort into the far corner to give the hosts the lead.
Four minutes later, Haaland made it two. Antonio Nusa engineered the chance by weaving into the box before sliding the ball to the striker, who finished first time past Denmark goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen.
Denmark pulled one back before the break through Mikkel Damsgaard. The Brentford midfielder struck a superb 25-yard free-kick to cap a remarkable period that produced three goals in 11 minutes.
Denmark respond against Norway
Former Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund levelled for Denmark on the hour, setting up a tense final half-hour in Oslo.
Norway restored their lead in the 74th minute when a well-worked corner found Haaland inside the area. The striker smashed the ball home for his second of the night and what proved to be Norway’s winner.
The closing stages delivered more drama when Norway substitute David Moller Wolfe was shown a second yellow card in stoppage time. Despite ending the match with 10 men, Norway hung on for the victory.
Norway top Nations League group
The result places Norway at the top of League A Group 4 after the opening round of fixtures.
Portugal also started their campaign with a win, defeating Wales 1-0 in the other match in the section. Haaland’s two goals therefore helped Norway secure all three points in their opening Nations League fixture.