The Manchester City star bagged a brace as Norway powered past Estonia 4–1 in Oslo on Thursday, pushing them to the brink of their first World Cup appearance in nearly three decades.
All four Norwegian goals came after the break, showing just how explosive this team can be once they shift gears. Alexander Sorloth fired home early in the second half to double the advantage before Haaland took center stage, striking twice in quick succession to make it 4–0.
Haaland has now netted 14 of Norway’s group-topping 33 goals: a staggering tally in just seven matches. The striker, born two years after Norway’s last World Cup in 1998, is leading a new golden generation determined to rewrite history.
With a superior goal difference and Italy trailing six points behind in Group I, Norway’s qualification looks all but sealed. Italy still has to face Moldova later Thursday. If the Azzurri drop points, Norway’s ticket to the United States, Canada, and Mexico will be confirmed.
For now, the Norwegians have one more test, a trip to Italy on Sunday, where Haaland and company can officially book their World Cup return.
Elsewhere, France need to beat Ukraine to confirm their spot from Group D, while Portugal can also punch their ticket with a win in Ireland.
Norway’s fans can finally believe again: the road to 2026 is wide open, and Haaland is driving the charge.
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