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Once-in-a-generation goalgetter Erling Haaland earns a chance to play in his premier global event this coming summer, following his guidance Norway to the World Cup.

Furthermore, the 25-year-old Premier League striker did it in sensational style, registering 16 goals in eight World Cup qualifying matches - netting at least once in every one of those games.

This establishes him as the top scorer in 2026 World Cup preliminary stage in all continents.

Moreover, his national team's 4-1 win in Italy on Sunday, with Haaland netting two goals, means they will be participating in next summer's World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Haaland, speaking following the match: "I'm happy, but primarily relieved. There's significant pressure and factors, and I sense it. But it's enjoyable."

This represents just their fourth World Cup, and their premier global event since the 2000 Euros.

How Important Has Haaland Been?

The striker's scoring statistics for Norway is nothing short of phenomenal.

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

Additionally he is only the sixth player ever, and the premier in half a century, to score 50 goals in less than 50 appearances.

Norway's previous highest scorer was Juve with 33 strikes, who held that record for nine decades.

During these qualifying matches he netted 16 strikes - in eight matches - plus two setup passes.

This represents twice the goal count any other player has scored in Europe.

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

Beyond a full year has gone by since Haaland most recently didn't net in a match for his country.

Squad Contribution Alongside Haaland

However, it's not solely about one player.

Captain Martin Odegaard, 26, has additional assists than any competitor in UEFA qualification - seven setups.

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

"Combine Haaland's success with the fact that in this generation we furthermore feature Martin Odegaard," stated an analyst.

We're a country of five million citizens and we possess both the premier attacker and I'd suggest the premier midfielder, definitely among the best playmakers, in the EPL.

Historical Importance of Successful Qualification

For the premier occasion in a generation Norway fans will experience the joy of supporting their team at an international tournament.

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

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

Haaland has earlier stated being better than his father was a significant personal target for him.

"Norway will cannot win the World Cup," Haaland stated to a global media outlet in recent months.

Escaping Historical Oversight

Haaland heading to the upcoming World Cup with Norway ensures he escapes his inclusion on the list of great players who missed World Cup action.

Three Ballon d'Or winners never managed to participate in the global tournament.

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

Famous United forward George Best, regarded by numerous as among the best ever, was a Northern Irish representative during the sixties and seventies when they couldn't secure qualification.

Real Madrid legend Alfredo di Stefano represented three countries - Spain, Argentina and Colombia - but couldn't reach a World Cup with either country.