Generational goalgetter Erling Haaland will get a chance to play in his premier global event in the upcoming season, thanks to his efforts with Norway to the World Cup.
Additionally, the 25-year-old Manchester City striker did it in sensational style, netting 16 goals in eight World Cup qualifying matches - scoring in every match in each of those matches.
This positions him as the leading goalscorer in 2026 World Cup qualifying in all continents.
And his country's 4-1 win in Italy on Sunday, with Haaland netting two goals, guarantees they'll be playing in next summer's World Cup in the American continent.
Haaland, speaking following the match: "I'm delighted, but mostly relieved. There's significant pressure and factors, and I sense it. But it's enjoyable."
It will be just their fourth World Cup, and their initial international competition since the 2000 Euros.
Haaland's goalscoring record for Norway is truly extraordinary.
He has registered 55 goals in 48 matches for Norway.
And in fact he is only the sixth player ever, and the first in 53 years, to score 50 goals in less than 50 appearances.
The nation's former leading goalscorer was 33-goal Jorgen Juve, who kept that distinction for 90 years.
In these qualifiers he registered 16 finishes - in eight encounters - plus two goal contributions.
This represents twice the scoring total any other player has registered in European qualifying.
He is the highest scorer in these qualifying matches in any continent, even in regions where squads compete double the matches.
Beyond a full year has gone by since Haaland last failed to score in a game for Norway.
However, it's not only about Haaland.
Skipper Martin Odegaard, 26, has more assists than any competitor in European preliminary matches - seven.
The Arsenal midfielder has featured in 67 matches for Norway since his initial cap at the young age of 15.
"Pair Haaland's achievements with the truth that in this era we additionally possess Martin Odegaard," stated an analyst.
Our nation represents of five million people and we have both the premier attacker and I would argue the top creator, absolutely including the best playmakers, in the English top flight.
Initially in decades Norway supporters will enjoy the excitement of backing their national side in worldwide event.
Their nation competed in the World Cups in 1938, 1994 and 1998, and the 2000 Euros.
Erling's dad, Alf Inge, participated in the 1994 World Cup.
Haaland has earlier stated surpassing his father was a major professional goal for him.
"Norway will never win the World Cup," the striker mentioned to a major publication in recent months.
Haaland heading to the upcoming World Cup with Norway guarantees he dodges his addition to the roster of legendary footballers who didn't participate in the tournament.
Three Ballon d'Or winners didn't succeed to participate in the global tournament.
The African icon, who secured titles with Monaco, PSG, AC Milan and Chelsea, played for Liberia - who have never reached a World Cup.
Legendary Red Devils attacker George Best, considered by many as among the best ever, was a Northern Ireland international during the 1960s and 70s when they failed to qualify.
Madrid superstar the Argentine-Spanish star represented three nations - Argentina, Colombia and Spain - but couldn't reach a World Cup with any of them.
Lena Hoffmann is a seasoned journalist with a passion for uncovering stories that matter, specializing in German current affairs and digital media trends.
