Erling Haaland and his Norway teammates showcased their rowing talents after securing a spot in the World Cup's round of 32, but it's clear that Haaland's true specialty lies in his ability to score goals.
"It’s my specialty to score goals," Haaland said. "I’m just really good at scoring goals."
Haaland's goals total in the World Cup now stands at four, thanks to his two goals in Norway's 3-2 win over Senegal on Monday night, a match that was more of a grind than a dominant performance.
Following the final whistle, Norway's players and staff gathered in a tight formation to perform the Viking Row with their supporters, complete with Haaland at the front and teammate Martin Ødegaard on the bongo drum.
"It was fun," Norway coach Ståle Solbakken said through an interpreter. "We will not be rowing after the World Cup, but this can be a gimmick during the tournament."
Marcus Pederson put Norway ahead in the 43rd minute, and Haaland continued his incredible goals streak with scores in the 48th and 58th minutes to build a 3-1 lead.
"He's very efficient," Senegal coach Pape Thiaw said through an interpreter.
Haaland Honors Henry With Corner Flag Celebration
Haaland ran onto Martin Ødegaard's pass and scored with a left-footed shot, then paid homage to Thierry Henry with the French World Cup winner's trademark corner flag celebration.
For his second goal, Haaland volleyed in Patrick Berg’s pass, raising a hand to an ear to inspire the Norway supporters.
Haaland has 24 goals in his last 12 international games, scoring at least once in every match, and 59 goals in 52 international appearances.
He is second in the Golden Boot race, one behind Argentina's Lionel Messi and tied with France's Kylian Mbappé.
Ismaila Sarr scored both goals for Senegal, in the 53rd minute and in the third minute of second-half stoppage time.
"If we had just played slightly worse, then we would be in trouble," Solbakken said.
Senegal is 0-2 in a World Cup for the first time and needs a win over Iraq to have any chance of advancing as a third-place team.
"We've got everything left to play for," Thaw said.
Haaland Quips On France's Chances: ‘They’ll Win The Whole Thing'
Norway is assured of advancing from Group I along with France and will face Les Bleus on Friday for first place.
"I couldn't care too much about that game now. They're probably going to win against us. They're probably going to win the tournament," Haaland said.
The focus now shifts to the highly anticipated match against France, but for now, Haaland is basking in the glory of another memorable performance.
"Let’s be happy," Haaland said, "every single Norwegian on the planet today."
