Erling Haaland has been the driving force behind Norway’s spectacular qualifying push. The Manchester City striker has dominated UEFA qualifying, becoming the top scorer with 12 goals in six matches. His performances have included a hat-trick against Israel and an astonishing five-goal display against Moldova. With Erling Haaland in blistering form, Norway have transformed into one of the most dangerous teams in Europe during this qualifying cycle.
Since 2000, the year Erling Haaland was born, Norway have failed to reach a single World Cup. Their campaigns have been filled with near misses, disappointments, and lost opportunities. However, this time feels different. With Erling Haaland leading the attack and Martin Odegaard controlling the midfield, Norway have finally found a generation capable of competing at the highest level. Qualification for the 2026 World Cup is now firmly within their control.
Key Match and Qualification Overview
- Match: Norway vs Estonia
- Result: Norway win with doubles from Haaland and Sorloth
- Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
- Group: Group I
- Norway Position: 1st place
- Lead Over Italy: 6 points
- Goal Difference Advantage: 19 goals
- Norway Last World Cup: 1998
- Top Qualifying Scorer: Erling Haaland with 12 goals
The emotional significance of this moment is clear. Erling Haaland’s father, Alfie Haaland, represented Norway at the 1994 World Cup in the United States. Although Erling Haaland has already surpassed his father in club achievements through Premier League titles, Champions League success, and multiple goal-scoring awards, playing in the World Cup remains the one milestone he has yet to match. Reaching the 2026 tournament would therefore be a powerful family milestone, allowing father and son to share a chapter of footballing history.
Haaland’s Impact on Norway’s World Cup Journey
Norway’s last appearance at the World Cup in 1998 produced unforgettable moments, including their famous 2-1 win over reigning world champions Brazil. That golden memory continues to inspire fans today. Now, with Erling Haaland leading the team, Norway hope to create new memories that can match or even surpass that historic achievement.
Coach Stale Solbakken, a member of the 1998 squad, has worked tirelessly to modernize the national team. Under his leadership, Norway play quicker, more direct football built around the strengths of Erling Haaland and the creativity of Odegaard. Solbakken has been vocal about ending the cycle of discussing past achievements and instead building new ones. His experience, leadership, and tactical vision have helped Norway evolve into a more confident and aggressive side.
Supporters have responded with passion. During their 3-0 win over Italy earlier in qualifying, heavy rain poured throughout the match, yet fans stayed in the stands long after the final whistle, celebrating as if qualification had already been sealed. Erling Haaland remarked that qualifying for the World Cup would be the biggest celebration in Norway’s sporting history, predicting unforgettable scenes in Oslo if the team completes the job.
With one match remaining and a massive goal difference advantage, Norway’s path is clear. Even if Italy win their final games, overcoming Norway’s lead is highly unlikely. Everything points toward Norway returning to the world stage, led by the unstoppable presence of Erling Haaland.
FAQs
What is Norway’s current position in their World Cup qualifying group?
Norway are first in Group I with a perfect winning record and a strong goal difference advantage.
How many goals has Erling Haaland scored in qualifying?
Erling Haaland has scored 12 goals in six matches, making him the top scorer in UEFA qualifying.
When was the last time Norway played in a World Cup?
Norway last appeared in the World Cup in 1998.
Does Erling Haaland’s father have World Cup experience?
Yes, Alfie Haaland played at the 1994 World Cup in the United States.
What does Norway need to officially qualify?
Italy must fail to overturn Norway’s large goal difference advantage, making Norway’s qualification almost guaranteed
