Erling Haaland delivered a sensational display of performance for Norway against Moldova during their FIFA World Cup qualifiers clash. It came just days before Manchester City’s return to the Premier League after the international break with the crucial derby clash against Manchester United.
The 25-year-old striker netted five goals and registered two assists in an 11-1 demolition of Moldova, reminding everyone of his devastating finishing ability. It’s an ability that earned him the highest goalscorer in the league on his first season in England.
The night at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo was nothing short of extraordinary. Haaland struck in the 11th, 36th, 43rd, 52nd, and 83rd minutes. He also set up Felix Horn Myhre’s opener and Thelo Aasgaard’s fourth goal of the evening, earning a 10/10 rating on Fotmob. Even more remarkable, Haaland played despite having three stitches on his face.
Haaland had to get the stitches for what he described as being “banged out” by a bus door accident earlier in the week. The incident, though unusual, did little to dampen his ruthless form. Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard was also influential, supplying two assists and adding a goal of his own.
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Norway’s 11-1 win equaled their biggest competitive win. It also matched the second-highest margin of win in European World Cup qualifying history. Only West Germany’s 12-0 win over Cyprus in 1969 ranks higher. Haaland’s five goals also placed him just behind Austria’s Hans Krankl.
Krankl holds the European qualifying record with six goals in a single game. For Norway, the result keeps them top of Group I with five wins from five. Moldova, meanwhile, remain winless in their campaign. However, they still have a chance at the playoff stage through the Nations League pathway.
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The timing of Haaland’s form could not come at a better time for Pep Guardiola. Manchester City entered the international break on the back of a 2-1 defeat to Brighton, with injuries adding to their concerns. Haaland’s return to peak scoring efficiency provides a major boost ahead of the Manchester derby.
It’s a fixture that could shape City’s early-season trajectory. Especially considering they’re sitting in 13th place in the league table after registering only one win and two defeats in their opening three games. Should Haaland replicate his international brilliance, he may once again prove decisive in the Manchester derby.
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