The last time Norway participated in the World Cup finals was in 1998. Therefore, Erling Haaland and his teammates securing qualification from the second matchday of Group I is of historic significance for Nordic football.
The brightest star continues to be Haaland. The Manchester City striker scored a brace against Senegal, bringing his total goals at the 2026 World Cup to four in just two matches. With this achievement, the 25-year-old striker remains one of the leading contenders for the Golden Boot. Currently, Haaland and Mbappe of France both have four goals, just one goal behind the leader, Messi of Argentina.
Haaland shone brightly, helping Norway defeat their tough opponent Senegal.
PHOTO: REUTERS
After the match, coach Solbakken couldn’t hide his pride in his player: “He is the best striker. Remember, he doesn’t play for France or Argentina, he scores for Norway. Two of the most important matches and Haaland scored a brace in both. That says it all.”
He also affirmed that the entire team would do their utmost to support Haaland in his pursuit of the Golden Boot: “Winning the Golden Boot is easier when you play for teams like France or Argentina. But we will try to create more opportunities for Erling in the upcoming matches. He is in fantastic form.”
Norway’s coach Solbakken is attracting attention.
Not only did the Norwegian coach draw attention with his emotional statements, but he also consistently created sensational moments after the final whistle.
As soon as the match ended, Coach Solbakken rushed into the stands in the heavy rain at MetLife Stadium to find his wife, Anniken. In front of tens of thousands of spectators, he gave his life partner a touching kiss and then hugged her tightly in overwhelming joy.
The image quickly went viral on social media and received countless compliments from fans. Many supporters called it “the most beautiful moment of the World Cup,” while Norwegian media described it as an expression of “true love.”
After celebrating with his family, Coach Solbakken joined in the enthusiastic atmosphere with his players. The manager participated in chanting and reenacting the famous “Viking rowing” ritual with Haaland, Martin Odegaard, and the entire team in front of the Norwegian fans.
Coach Solbakken joined in the familiar celebration of the Norwegian national team.
PHOTO: REUTERS
The players sat in rows on the pitch, mimicking the shape of a Viking longboat, while Odegaard acted as the drummer, setting the rhythm. The celebration became an iconic image of Norway at the 2026 World Cup and was replicated by fans from stadiums in the US all the way to Oslo.
With 6 points after two matches, Norway has secured a place in the round of 32. Coach Solbakken’s team is currently second in Group I, behind France on goal difference. The final match between the two teams will decide the top spot in the group, but with what they have shown, Haaland and his teammates have written a new chapter in Norwegian football history after nearly three decades of waiting.
