Haaland's Goals Registered as Seismic Activity

Erling Haaland's goals during Norway's 4-1 victory over Iraq in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers caused ground vibrations in the city of Bergen, according to the NORSAR seismological institute. The Manchester City striker netted two goals in the first half, with Leo Østigård and an own goal after the break completing the scoreline. This emphatic win put Norway at the top of Group I on goal difference, ahead of reigning World Cup runners-up France, who defeated Senegal 3-1. A seismometer located in the Norwegian city of Bergen registered "clear signals" following Haaland's goals in the 29th and 43rd minutes of the match played in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

"On Wednesday evening, the seismological institute in Bergen recorded clear signals at a nearby station during the World Cup qualifier between Norway and Iraq. The highest deviations coincided with Erling Braut Haaland's goals, which sparked jubilation among Norwegian supporters. These signals were most likely caused by the excitement of fans watching the match in Bergen," NORSAR stated. "When many people react simultaneously to major sporting events, their movement can generate underground vibrations that are picked up by a highly sensitive seismograph," NORSAR reported, as quoted by DPA news agency.