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Generational goalgetter Erling Haaland secures an opportunity in his first major tournament in the upcoming season, after leading Norway to the World Cup.

Furthermore, the 25-year-old Premier League striker accomplished it through remarkable fashion, registering 16 goals in eight World Cup qualifying matches - netting at least once in all those encounters.

This establishes him as the leading goalscorer in 2026 World Cup qualification in any continent.

Moreover, his squad's 4-1 win versus Italy on Sunday, with Haaland netting two goals, guarantees they'll be competing in next summer's World Cup in North America.

Haaland, speaking afterwards: "I'm happy, but primarily relieved. There's significant pressure and factors, and I feel it. But it's enjoyable."

It will be only their fourth World Cup, and their first major tournament since the 2000 European Championship.

How Important Did Haaland Play?

His goal tally for Norway is nothing short of phenomenal.

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

And in fact he is merely the sixth athlete ever, and the initial one in over five decades, to net 50 strikes in fewer than 50 caps.

The nation's former highest scorer was Jorgen Juve with 33 goals, who maintained that achievement for 90 years.

During these qualifying matches he netted 16 strikes - in eight games - plus two assists.

This represents twice the scoring total anyone else has scored in Europe.

He is the highest scorer in these qualifiers in all continents, including areas where teams play twice as more games.

Beyond a full year has elapsed since Haaland last failed to score in a game for Norway.

Squad Contribution Alongside Haaland

However, it's not only about Haaland.

Skipper Martin Odegaard, 26, has greater goal contributions than anyone else in European qualifying - seven assists.

The Arsenal midfielder has featured in 67 matches for Norway since making his debut at the age of 15.

"Combine Haaland's success with the truth that in this generation we furthermore feature Martin Odegaard," said a Norwegian journalist.

We're a country of five million inhabitants and we have both the premier attacker and I'd propose the top creator, absolutely including the premier midfielders, in the English top flight.

Historical Importance of World Cup Spot

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

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

Haaland's father, Alf Inge, participated in the 1994 competition.

The striker has mentioned before surpassing his dad represented a significant personal target for him.

"Norway will not win the World Cup," the striker mentioned to a global media outlet recently.

Escaping Historical Oversight

Haaland's participation in the upcoming World Cup with Norway ensures he escapes his name going on the collection of iconic athletes who didn't participate in the tournament.

Three golden ball recipients didn't succeed to reach a World Cup.

The African icon, who claimed championships with Monaco, PSG, AC Milan and Chelsea, represented Liberia - who have never reached a World Cup.

Legendary Red Devils attacker George Best, regarded by numerous as one of football's greatest players, was a Northern Irish representative during the 1960s and 70s when they failed to qualify.

Real Madrid legend Alfredo di Stefano represented three countries - Argentina, Colombia and Spain - but never got to a World Cup with any national team.