Post by : Maya Rahman

Norway is heading to its first World Cup since 1998, thanks to the outstanding contributions of striker Erling Haaland. The 25-year-old star from Manchester City netted two goals in a convincing 4-1 victory against Italy at the iconic San Siro, rounding off a remarkable qualifying campaign where he scored an impressive total of 16 goals—more than any other European player in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Haaland's goal-rich qualifying series features a stunning five goals during Norway's explosive 11-1 triumph against Moldova and at least one goal in each of their eight qualifying fixtures. His performance has garnered widespread acclaim, placing him ahead of notable players such as England skipper Harry Kane, Netherlands' Memphis Depay, and Austria's Marko Arnautovic, all of whom managed eight goals.

Post-match, Haaland expressed immense pride in his team’s accomplishment, stating, “It was absolutely incredible. I’m proud, and this is just fantastic. Winning 4-1 here shows our unpredictability.” His manager, Stale Solbakken, commended Haaland's remarkable influence on the game, dubbing him a “goal machine” and praised the way Italian fans even applauded him despite the loss.

Beyond his scoring prowess, Haaland’s presence—standing at six-foot-five—exudes a mix of power and finesse, establishing him as one of the most formidable strikers in global football. His leadership shone during Norway’s emphatic win over Estonia, where he delivered an impassioned halftime address to invigorate his teammates. In his home country, which boasts a population of under six million, Haaland is venerated, with several murals and a notable three-meter wooden statue, which was stolen in 2022, representing his influence.

For Haaland, qualifying for the World Cup symbolizes not only personal success but a collective milestone for Norwegian football. “We’ve cracked codes and evolved into better individual players,” he remarked, acknowledging the rise of young talents like Antonio Nusa and Oscar Bobb, both of whom have graced the pitch for Manchester City. “It’s vital to appreciate where we are as a small nation. I feel like this is just the beginning of something monumental. Enjoying the moment is key.”

As Norway gears up for the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, Haaland will be integral to the team's aspirations. His goal-scoring prowess, leadership, and inspiring aura position him as a crucial figure in Norway’s journey, with fans eagerly awaiting their performance on the world stage. In addition to his athletic gifts, Haaland’s charisma and dedication to his teammates have made him a cherished figure both domestically and on an international level, paving the way for an exhilarating adventure for Norway in the upcoming tournament.

#Sports News