Erling Haaland played a pivotal role in launching Norway’s World Cup qualifying campaign with a dominating 5-0 triumph over Moldova on Saturday. This marks the beginning of a hopeful journey for Norway, which last made a World Cup appearance in 1998, predating Haaland’s birth by two years.
Leading the charge alongside Haaland is Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard, as Norway aims to qualify for the 2026 tournament set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With high expectations, Norway is the frontrunner to top Group I, alongside Estonia and Israel.
During the match against Moldova, Haaland scored Norway’s second goal, bringing his impressive international record to 39 goals in 40 matches since he debuted in 2019. Norway’s victorious campaign began swiftly with Julian Ryerson of Dortmund scoring just five minutes into the match in Chisinau. Haaland then extended the lead in the 23rd minute. Thelo Aasgaard, who had set up Ryerson’s opener, scored the third goal. Right before halftime, Martin Odegaard assisted Alexander Sorloth for another goal, and substitute Aron Donnum added to the tally in the second half.
While Haaland has tasted success at the club level, winning the Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup with Manchester City, he is yet to lead Norway to a significant international tournament. His absence due to injury during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers was a blow to Norway’s unsuccessful campaign, and they also missed the chance for the 2024 European Championship, finishing third in their group behind Spain and Scotland.
Europe will feature 16 teams in the expanded 48-team setup for the upcoming World Cup in North America. These will include winners from 12 qualifying groups, in addition to four teams emerging from playoffs among the group runners-up. The European qualifying matches will continue through November.