A split lip requiring three stitches, sustained from a bus luggage compartment door, didn't hinder Haaland's performance.

Erling Haaland scored five goals in Norway's 11-1 victory over Moldova in Group I of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers - European zone on 9/9. Photo: Alamy

At Ullevaal Stadium on the evening of 9/9, the Man City striker delivered one of the finest performances of his career. Haaland played 89 minutes, had 38 touches, took 10 shots with seven on target, contributed to seven goals, and received a perfect 10 rating from Sofascore.

Haaland scored five goals, four with his right foot and one header. The 25-year-old striker also assisted Felix Horn Myhre's opening goal and Thelo Aasgaard's final goal.

Haaland has scored in his last eight appearances for Norway, totaling 14 goals. He is also the first European player to score five goals in a World Cup qualifier since Hans Krankl netted six for Austria against Malta in 1977. Haaland's international tally now stands at 48 goals in 45 matches, breaking an 87-year-old record and making him Norway's all-time leading scorer.

Erling Haaland (left) and Martin Odegaard celebrate during the match. Photo: NTB

Facing the 154th-ranked team in the world allowed Norway's stars to shine. Captain Martin Odegaard, Arsenal's midfielder, also made his mark with a goal and two assists. Thelo Aasgaard scored four goals despite only coming on as a substitute in the 64th minute.

Moldova managed only two off-target shots. However, they did get on the scoresheet thanks to an own goal from defender Leo Skiri Ostigard.

This was the first time a European World Cup qualifier saw 12 goals since Germany's 12-0 win over Cyprus in 1969, 56 years ago.

Erling Haaland and Thelo Aasgaard (right) take the match ball home as souvenirs. Photo: NFF

The 11-1 victory puts Norway in a strong position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Haaland and his teammates continue to lead Group I with 15 points after five matches. Italy and Israel are tied for second with nine points each. The group winners will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, while the runners-up will compete for remaining spots in a second stage.

Norway's last major tournament appearance was at the 1998 World Cup. They finished above Morocco and Scotland, second only to Brazil in their group. However, they lost 0-1 to Italy in the round of 16.

Hong Duy