Norway Edges Closer to World Cup Qualification with Haaland’s Stellar Performance

Norway is nearing qualification for the 2026 World Cup, marking a potential return to the tournament for the first time since 1998. Their last major event participation was in the European Championship, but this drought is poised to end.

Erling Haaland, the 25-year-old forward, has been instrumental in propelling his nation toward FIFA’s flagship event. His exceptional performance during the 2025-26 season has made him a formidable opponent, with few rivals able to match his prowess.

In their latest qualification match, Norway decisively defeated Estonia 4-1, with Haaland contributing two goals to the tally. This brings his impressive record to 30 goals across 19 appearances for both club and country this season.

Earlier in the campaign, Haaland showcased his scoring ability with five goals in an 11-1 victory against Moldova and a hat-trick against Israel. At the club level, he has netted 19 goals for Manchester City in just 11 outings, with 14 of those coming in the Premier League.

Despite his club success, which includes winning the Champions League as part of a treble with City in the 2022-23 season, Haaland has yet to celebrate a significant achievement on the international stage.

Barring an unforeseen collapse against Italy on Sunday, Haaland is eagerly anticipating his World Cup debut. Fans enthusiastically chanted “Norway is going to the World Cup” during their match against Estonia, reflecting the nation’s optimism.

Post-match, Haaland humorously celebrated by ordering 60-70 cheeseburgers from a local restaurant, a moment captured by cameras, including those documenting for his YouTube channel. Teammate Sande Berge remarked on Haaland’s celebratory spirit, while national team coach Stale Solbakken acknowledged the significance of the evening.

Norwegian fans exhibited commendable restraint by staying off the pitch following the intense match, allowing players and supporters to celebrate together amidst raining confetti.

Nils Johan Semb, a prominent figure in Norwegian football, expressed confidence in the team’s competitiveness at the upcoming World Cup, praising their talented roster. He remarked, “We have broken a barrier. This promising generation has achieved a significant milestone. There is considerable quality within the team.”

Haaland is regarded in Norway as “the world’s best footballer right now,” with his current form rendering him “completely unstoppable” and underscoring his extraordinary goal-scoring capabilities.

Norway is also set to welcome back Arsenal midfielder Martin Ødegaard, who is recovering from injuries and expected to take over the captaincy from Haaland.

Looking ahead, Solbakken’s squad is scheduled to face Italy at San Siro in Milan. With seven consecutive wins, Norway’s goal difference of 17 positions them favorably in the qualification standings.

Haaland has the opportunity to make history against Italy, having already scored 14 goals in the qualification campaign. The record for the most goals in a single qualification campaign stands at 16, held by Polish striker Robert Lewandowski during the 2018 finals.