Jan Langhaug /NTB/via REUTERS
Erling Haaland returned home from the United States with a furry souvenir
Norway may have been knocked out by England in the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup, but star striker Erling Haaland still went home a winner. Not only did he become arguably the breakout star of the World Cup from a global perspective, but he also returned to his homeland clutching a new prized possession: a taxidermy raccoon holding a bottle of whiskey.
Not only did Erling Haaland virtually carry Norway to the quarterfinals with seven goals during the tournament, but he became one of the breakout stars of the World Cup, gaining over 25 million followers on Instagram during Norway’s run in the tournament.
Haaland seemed to be particularly appreciated in the United States, with American sports fans seemingly loving his combination of physical dominance and an affable off-the-field personality.
I love this freak so much. Can’t we just give him one of those Gold Cards and make him a citizen and offer him like a billion dollars? https://t.co/wO7FX5bhAo
— KFC (@KFCBarstool) July 9, 2026
Erling Haaland returned to Norway with a $750 taxidermy raccoon holding a bottle of whiskey that he bought in Dallas
Perhaps aware of his growing admiration in the States, Haaland made sure to be seen returning to his homeland with a souvenir from his time in the country: a $750 taxidermy raccoon holding a bottle of whiskey.
Jan Langhaug / NTB / AFP) / Norway OUT
Erling Haaland returned to Norway with a $750 stuffed raccoon
Haaland purchased the parting gift at Wild Bill’s Western Store during the Norway national team’s stay in Dallas for the 2026 World Cup.
England’s win over Norway in the quarterfinals sent them to the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup, where they’ll take on defending champions Lionel Messi and Argentina. Argentina and England will face off from Atlanta on Wednesday, July 15 at 3 p.m. EST.
As for Haaland, he’ll likely have a couple of weeks off before rejoining his club team Manchester City, who will be without legendary manager Pep Guardiola for the first time in a decade following his departure from the role.