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Extraordinary goalgetter Erling Haaland earns a chance to play in his first major tournament next summer, following his guidance Norway to the World Cup.

And the 25-year-old Manchester City striker did it in remarkable fashion, netting 16 goals in eight World Cup preliminary games - scoring in every match in all those encounters.

This positions him as the leading goalscorer in 2026 World Cup qualifying in every region.

And his country's 4-1 win in Italy on Sunday, where Haaland scored twice, guarantees they'll be playing in next summer's World Cup in North America.

The striker commented afterwards: "I'm delighted, but primarily relieved. There's a lot of pressure and stuff, and I experience it. But it's enjoyable."

It will be only their fourth World Cup, and their initial international competition since the 2000 Euros.

How Important Did Haaland Play?

Haaland's goalscoring record for Norway is absolutely remarkable.

He has scored 55 goals in 48 matches for his country.

Furthermore he is only the sixth player ever, and the initial one in over five decades, to net 50 strikes in under 50 international games.

Norway's previous top scorer was Juve with 33 strikes, who maintained that achievement for 90 years.

In these qualifiers he scored 16 goals - in eight encounters - plus two assists.

This amounts to double the goal count any other player has scored in Europe.

He is the top scorer in these preliminary games in all continents, including ones where teams play twice as more games.

Over a year has elapsed since Haaland most recently didn't net in a game for Norway.

Squad Contribution Beyond Haaland

But it is not only about Haaland.

Skipper Martin Odegaard, 26, has additional assists than any competitor in European preliminary matches - seven setups.

The Gunners playmaker has played 67 times for Norway since his initial cap at the young age of 15.

"Pair Haaland's achievements with the truth that in this period we furthermore feature Martin Odegaard," said a Norwegian journalist.

Norway is a nation of five million citizens and we feature both the top forward and I'd suggest the top creator, definitely among the premier midfielders, in the EPL.

Historical Relevance of World Cup Spot

For the first time in a generation Norway fans will experience the excitement of backing their national side in worldwide event.

Norway competed in the World Cups in 1998, 1994 and 1938, and Euro 2000.

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

Erling has previously said exceeding his father was a big career ambition for him.

"Norway will never win the World Cup," Haaland stated to an international magazine earlier this year.

Dodging Historical Omission

Haaland's qualification for next summer's World Cup with Norway guarantees he dodges his inclusion on the collection of iconic athletes who missed World Cup action.

Three golden ball recipients never managed to reach a World Cup.

The Liberian legend, who secured titles with multiple European clubs, represented Liberia - who have never reached a World Cup.

Iconic Manchester United winger George Best, viewed by plenty as one of football's greatest players, was a Northern Irish representative during the 1960s and 70s when they couldn't secure qualification.

Los Blancos icon the footballing pioneer represented three nations - Spain, Argentina and Colombia - but didn't make it to a World Cup with either country.