“It’s a record that has stood for a long time” - Erling Haaland says he’s ‘proud’ after making history for Norway in just his 36th appearance
Norway striker Erling Haaland has expressed pride at having made history for his country in only his 36th international appearance. The Manchester City man scored a brace to become Norway's all-time leading goalscorer during their UEFA Nations League 3-0 win over Slovenia on Thursday (October 10).
Norway missed the bus for Euro 2024 after failing to qualify but have begun their UEFA Nations League campaign in fine form. They won one and drew one of their games in September, with Haaland scoring in the win over Austria.
On Thursday, Erling Haaland captained his country in the absence of Martin Odegaard (ankle injury). The 24-year-old continued his rich vein of form for the side with a brace. His goals meant that he became his country's record goalscorer with 34 goals in 36 senior appearances. He has also provided three assists.
Haaland spoke to the press after the game, saying he felt immense pride at becoming Norway's leading goalscorer. He also pointed out that he has many years ahead of him to further extend his record, and that he feels good about himself.
“Of course, it is big and historic. I’m happy, and it’s a fantastic record to achieve ... I have many years left. I’m enjoying myself. It was a well executed match. I am proud. It is a record that has stood for a long time ... I felt good. It’s been a long time since I’ve had this much energy on the field," he said (via The Independent).
Haaland broke Jorgen Juve's record, which stood for over 90 years. Juve scored 33 goals in 45 appearances for his country, leading them to the Olympic bronze medal in 1936. Juve played the first 27 games of his international career as a striker before ending up in defense.
Erling Haaland inspires Norway to home win over Slovenia
Erling Haaland was at the heart of everything for Norway as they overcame Slovenia by a 3-0 scoreline in their UEFA Nations League meeting on Thursday. The Manchester City man scored his 33rd and 34th international goals to lead his side to victory.
Haaland opened the scoring for Norway after just seven minutes when he scored the rebound after Jan Oblak parried a shot from Antonio Nusa. Norway doubled their lead in the 52nd minute through Alexander Sorloth before the Atletico Madrid man set up Haaland to score his second 10 minutes later.
Erling Haaland created three chances for his teammates in the game and missed one big chance. He won five of seven duels and made one clearance and one recovery, producing a complete performance.