Erling Haaland marked Norway's crucial step towards World Cup qualification with an unusual but fitting celebration - ordering 70 cheeseburgers for his triumphant teammates after their dominant 4-1 victory over Estonia.
Norway's Qualification Breakthrough
The Manchester City striker continued his phenomenal scoring form with another brace during Thursday's qualifier in Oslo, taking his seasonal tally to an impressive 30 goals across all competitions. Norway's comprehensive victory at the Ullevaal Stadium gives them a commanding six-point lead at the top of Group I with just two matches remaining in the qualification campaign.
This result puts Norway firmly on course for their first World Cup appearance in 28 years, with Italy trailing significantly on goal difference despite occupying second place. The Scandinavian nation's four goals came in a devastating 10-minute second-half blitz that left Estonia reeling.
Goal-Scoring Frenzy in Oslo
Former Crystal Palace striker Alexander Sorloth, now with Atletico Madrid, opened the scoring barrage with goals in the 50th and 52nd minutes. Haaland then inevitably added his contribution, netting twice to complete the rout before Estonia managed a consolation goal that did little to affect the outcome.
The 25-year-old Norwegian phenomenon has now scored in each of his last four appearances for both club and country, including his weekend strike against Liverpool for Manchester City. His current form suggests he's poised to surpass his previous best season tally of 52 goals for City.
Haaland's Self-Confessed Peak Form
Speaking before the international break, Haaland admitted he's experiencing the finest form of his career. 'I feel like this is the best version of myself,' the striker revealed. 'I've never felt better than I do now. It's been a good start and I feel really good.'
Haaland credited Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola for his development, describing the Spanish tactician as 'a genius' whose dedication and work ethic have driven the club's success. 'We have to listen to him,' Haaland added. 'He tells us what we need to do and how we need to play. We have to perform for him because he deserves it.'
The post-match celebrations saw Haaland photographed carrying the massive fast food order into the dressing room, much to the delight of teammate Sander Berge. The Fulham star joked about 'a great performance from the captain' as the squad enjoyed their unconventional but well-deserved reward.
Norway's victory puts them within touching distance of next year's World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, potentially ending their nearly three-decade absence from football's biggest tournament.
