“I Am Relieved” – Erling Haaland After Firing Norway to First World Cup Since 1998
Striker reacts after scoring twice to seal Norway’s long-awaited World Cup return
- Norway thrashes Italy 4–1 to seal their first World Cup berth since 1998.
- Erling Haaland scores twice, finishing qualifying with 16 goals in eight matches.
- Haaland expresses relief, noting the pressure of ending Norway’s long absence from major tournaments.
Erling Haaland celebrates after Norway’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Italy at the San Siro in Milan.
Norway capped off their World Cup qualifying campaign in spectacular fashion, brushing aside Italy 4–1 at the San Siro despite the absence of Arsenal playmaker Martin Ødegaard. The dominant victory sealed Norway’s place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup—their first appearance on football’s biggest stage since 1998 and only the fourth in the nation’s history.
Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland led the charge, scoring twice to take his remarkable tally to 16 goals in just eight qualifying matches.
Speaking to TV2 after the match, Haaland admitted the achievement brought more relief than anything else, especially given Norway’s long absence from major international tournaments—the last being Euro 2000.
“I’m happy, but more relieved. There’s a lot of pressure and stuff, and I feel it. But it’s fun,” Haaland said.
With their emphatic win over the Italians, Norway now looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup with renewed hope and confidence.
