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Once-in-a-generation striker Erling Haaland secures a chance to play in his initial international competition in the upcoming season, following his guidance Norway to the World Cup.

Furthermore, 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 each of those matches.

That makes him the top scorer in 2026 World Cup preliminary stage in every region.

Additionally, his country's 4-1 win against Italy on Sunday, with Haaland netting two goals, ensures they will participating in next summer's World Cup in the American continent.

Haaland stated post-game: "I'm delighted, but primarily relieved. There's significant pressure and factors, and I sense it. But it's fun."

This marks just their fourth World Cup, and their premier global event since the 2000 European Championship.

What Significance Has Haaland Been?

Haaland's goalscoring record for Norway is nothing short of phenomenal.

He has scored 55 goals in 48 matches for the national team.

Additionally he is only the sixth player ever, and the initial one in over five decades, to net 50 strikes in less than 50 appearances.

The team's earlier highest scorer was 33-goal Jorgen Juve, who held that record for almost a century.

During these qualifying matches he registered 16 finishes - in eight games - plus two goal contributions.

This represents twice the scoring total anyone else has registered in European qualifying.

He stands as the top scorer in these preliminary games in every region, even in regions where teams play double the matches.

More than twelve months has passed since Haaland most recently didn't net in a game for Norway.

Squad Contribution Alongside Haaland

However, it's not solely about one player.

Captain Martin Odegaard, 26, has more assists than any other player in European qualifying - seven setups.

The Gunners playmaker has played 67 times for Norway since making his debut at the age of 15.

"Combine Haaland's success with the truth that in this generation we additionally possess Martin Odegaard," said an analyst.

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

Historical Importance of Successful Qualification

For the first time in decades Norway supporters will enjoy the excitement of backing their national side in worldwide event.

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

Haaland's father, Alf Inge Haaland, featured in the 1994 World Cup.

Erling has previously said surpassing his father was a major professional goal for him.

"Norway will cannot win the World Cup," Haaland Jr told a major publication in recent months.

Escaping Historical Exclusion

Haaland's participation in the upcoming World Cup with Norway guarantees he dodges his name going on the roster of legendary footballers who didn't participate in the tournament.

Three best player awardees didn't succeed to reach a World Cup.

The Liberian legend, who claimed championships with various top teams, played for Liberia - who haven't qualified for a World Cup.

Iconic Manchester United winger the footballing genius, considered by many as a true legend of the game, was a Ulster footballer during the 1960s and 70s when they failed to qualify.

Madrid superstar the footballing pioneer represented three national teams - Spain, Argentina and Colombia - but couldn't reach a World Cup with any national team.