Erling Haaland has been in incredible form for both Manchester City and Norway, and the forward is already looking forward the crunch Manchester derby this weekend
11:58, 10 Sep 2025
Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland sent Man Utd a warning on Tuesday
Erling Haaland prepared for this Sunday's Manchester derby in perfect style by netting five of Norway's 11 goals against Moldova in a World Cup qualifier.
The Norwegians are edging closer to their first World Cup appearance since 1998, with their prolific frontman enjoying spectacular form just days before Manchester City take on neighbours Manchester United in a crucial clash for both teams.
Haaland has already found the net three times in as many Premier League matches this season, yet Pep Guardiola's team have managed just three points from nine available. They must overcome their local adversaries this weekend, and Haaland appears ready to deliver.
The City striker grabbed a hat-trick within 32 first-half minutes at Oslo's Ullevaal Stadion, claiming his fifth treble for his nation. He would add another two goals after the break whilst also providing two assists to keep the scoreline ticking over.
Rangers midfielder Thelo Aasgaard entered as a substitute to net four second-half strikes, reports the Mirror.
Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland couldn't stop scoring over the international break
Haaland has now found the back of the net nine times during World Cup qualifying, more than any other player, with his remarkable displays coming at the perfect moment for his club ahead of welcoming United to the Etihad.
The 25-year-old also became the first player to score five goals for his country since 1948 following Tuesday evening's heroics, commenting: "A great game. We pulled it off in the end.
A historic evening!" Arsenal captain Odegaard has confessed it's a privilege to link up with Haaland on international duty, showering the City striker with praise: "It's a dream to play with him.
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"I know he times the runs perfectly. Then it's just a matter of hitting, and then it mostly goes to the finish when he gets it."
Fellow Norwegian and Fulham midfielder Sander Berge revealed he sometimes simply marvels at watching the pair in action: "These are two of the world's best footballers.
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"When they do it in the Premier League, you almost expect them to do it when they get so much space. There are some sick goals of course, but they are on that shelf. Then you just have to enjoy yourself and watch."