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Haaland Returns to Norway with Taxidermied Raccoon, Royal Reception

7/14/2026

32 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Erling Haaland arrived in Norway with a $750 taxidermied raccoon from a Dallas store, sparking online chatter.
The team returned home on July 13 after a 2-1 quarter-final loss to England in Miami.
Haaland scored seven goals in five games, including a brace that knocked Brazil out in the round of 16.
In Oslo the squad was met by tens of thousands, military jets, a water salute and Crown Prince Haakon’s reception.

History

Historical Context

In 1995 Norway’s women’s national team won the FIFA World Cup in Sweden, their plane escorted back to Oslo by two F-16 jets and a quarter of the country watched the victory on television. That enthusiasm created a tradition that resurfaced when striker Erling Haaland later returned home, reinforcing football’s role in Norway’s national identity.

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Story summary

Erling Haaland arrived in Norway with a $750 taxidermied raccoon from a Dallas store, sparking online chatter.
The team returned home on July 13 after a 2-1 quarter-final loss to England in Miami.
Haaland scored seven goals in five games, including a brace that knocked Brazil out in the round of 16.
In Oslo the squad was met by tens of thousands, military jets, a water salute and Crown Prince Haakon’s reception.

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