Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with a win over Iraq — yet the Manchester City striker insists he does not yet consider himself the best goalscorer in the world.

Despite his extraordinary output in front of goal, Haaland pointed to Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé as the two forwards he believes still sit above him when it comes to being regarded as football's finest finisher.

The admission is a rare moment of self-reflection from one of the most prolific attackers of his generation. Haaland's brace for Norway demonstrated once again the ruthless efficiency that has made him a constant talking point in world football — yet he remains measured in how he assesses his own standing.

Kane and Mbappé have long been considered the benchmark for elite goalscoring, accumulating records and honours across club and international football. Haaland's willingness to place them ahead of himself underlines just how high he sets the bar for what it takes to be the best.

Norway will be buoyed by the winning start to their World Cup qualifying campaign, with Haaland's contribution reminding opponents of the threat he poses at every level of the game.