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Once-in-a-generation striker Erling Haaland will get an opportunity in his initial international competition next summer, following his guidance Norway to the World Cup.

Additionally, the 25-year-old Premier League striker achieved it with sensational style, netting 16 goals in eight World Cup qualifying matches - netting at least once in each of those matches.

That makes him the highest scorer in 2026 World Cup qualification in any continent.

Moreover, his country's 4-1 win versus Italy on Sunday, where Haaland scored twice, means they will be competing in next summer's World Cup in North America.

The striker commented post-game: "I'm delighted, but mostly relieved. There's considerable expectation and stuff, and I experience it. But it's enjoyable."

This represents only their fourth World Cup, and their first major tournament since the 2000 Euros.

The Crucial Role Was Haaland's Contribution?

His goal tally for Norway is nothing short of phenomenal.

He has registered 55 goals in 48 matches for the national team.

Additionally he is just the sixth footballer ever, and the initial one in over five decades, to register 50 finishes in fewer than 50 caps.

Norway's previous leading goalscorer was Jorgen Juve with 33 goals, who held that record for 90 years.

Throughout these preliminary games he scored 16 goals - in eight matches - plus two assists.

That is double the scoring total any other player has scored in Europe.

He is the leading goalscorer in these preliminary games in any continent, even in regions where teams play twice the number of encounters.

Beyond a full year has elapsed since Haaland previously didn't score in a game for Norway.

Squad Contribution Alongside Haaland

But it is not just a one-man show.

Captain Martin Odegaard, 26, has additional assists than anyone else in UEFA qualification - seven assists.

The Arsenal midfielder has made 67 appearances for Norway since making his debut at the young age of 15.

"Merge Haaland's accomplishments with the truth that in this era we additionally possess Martin Odegaard," commented a Norwegian journalist.

Our nation represents of five million citizens and we have both the top forward and I'd suggest the best playmaker, absolutely including the top creators, in the EPL.

Historical Importance of Successful Qualification

For the premier occasion in decades Norway supporters will enjoy the joy of supporting their national side in worldwide event.

The Scandinavian country competed in the World Cups in 1998, 1994 and 1938, and the 2000 Euros.

Erling's dad, Alf-Inge Haaland, featured in the 1994 tournament.

Erling has previously said surpassing his father was a major professional goal for him.

"Norway will cannot win the World Cup," Haaland stated to a major publication in recent months.

Dodging Historical Exclusion

Haaland's participation in next summer's World Cup with Norway ensures he escapes his inclusion on the collection of iconic athletes who missed World Cup action.

Three golden ball recipients didn't succeed to participate in the global tournament.

George Weah, who won trophies with Monaco, PSG, AC Milan and Chelsea, represented Liberia - who haven't qualified for a World Cup.

Iconic Manchester United winger the Northern Irish star, viewed by plenty as among the best ever, was a Northern Ireland international during the mid-century period when they couldn't secure qualification.

Real Madrid legend Alfredo di Stefano featured for three countries - Spain, Argentina and Colombia - but didn't make it to a World Cup with any of them.