Manchester City striker Erling Haaland will be a star attraction in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The goal machine was once again instrumental, helping Norway beat Italy 4-1. Norway, who had already sealed virtual qualification before their Matchday 8 clash, have now gained a World Cup berth officially. They finished above Italy in Group I.
Norway returned to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years and this was largely due to Haaland, who was unstoppable. He has been tremendous with his goal-scoring attributes. Moreover, this will be only the fourth time Norway will play in the World Cup. It’s also their first major tournament since Euro 2000.
Haaland and his goal-scoring attributes in World Cup Qualifiers
Haaland’s international scoring record is nothing short of extraordinary. He has scored 55 goals in 48 matches for Norway, making him one of the fastest players to reach 50 international goals.
In the qualifying campaign, he netted an incredible 16 goals and provided two assists, doubling the tally of any other player in Europe. Haaland equalled Robert Lewandowski’s record of 16 goals scored in a single European qualifying campaign for a World Cup.
Haaland started his World Cup qualifying campaign by scoring a goal each against the likes of Moldova, Israel, Italy and Estonia. The then bagged 5 goals against Moldova at home and followed it up with a three-goal burst against Israel at home. He then bagged a brace each against Estonia at home and Italy away.
Haaland steals the show against Italy
Pio Esposito gave hosts Italy a 1-0 lead in the 11th minute. Esposito was picked out by Federico Dimarco. Notably, Italy dominated after that but could not find another goal before the break. The second half saw Norway respond in style.
Antonio Nusa levelled matters in the 63rd minute before Haaland volleyed in superbly from Manchester City team-mate Oscar Bobb’s cross. The striker then swiftly got his second a minute later from Morten Thorsby’s assist.
Later on, Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Jorgen Strand Larsen wrapped up a dream win.
100% win record in qualifying campaign for Norway
Norway had a 100% win record in their qualifying campaign. They played 8 matches and won all 8. Haaland-inspired Norway scored a whopping tally of 37 goals. They went on to concede 5 goals to finish with a goal difference of +32. Norway claimed 24 points, six more than Italy (18).
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