Erling Haaland’s performance for Norway, which saw him net a first-half double in their 4-1 World Cup victory over Iraq, caused earth tremors in his home country.
The seismic activity was recorded by the NORSAR institute in the coastal city of Bergen, following his brace in his tournament debut.
Haaland opened his account in the 29th minute – marking Norway’s first World Cup goal since 1998 – before adding a second strike prior to halftime in Boston.
The goals sparked widespread joyous celebrations across Norway, where fans watched the match unfold at midnight.
“On Wednesday night, the seismic station in Bergen recorded clear signals near the station from the World Cup match between Norway and Iraq. The largest fluctuations coincide with Erling Braut Haaland’s goals, which triggered strong cheers among Norwegian supporters,” NORSAR said in a statement.
“The clearest effects are seen in connection with the Norwegian goals, especially Haaland’s two goals. The signals are probably due to cheers and movements among Norwegian supporters who were watching the match in Bergen,” the statement went on.
“When many people react simultaneously to big sporting moments, the combined movements can create vibrations in the ground that are recorded by sensitive seismometers.”
The institute said that the measurements were an indication of both the Norwegians’ joy over their team scoring at the World Cup and the sensitivity of modern seismology equipment.
“So even though Norway didn’t trigger an earthquake against Iraq, the cheering of Norwegian fans made the seismic measuring equipment in Bergen shake a little extra,” they said.
Leo Ostigard scored Norway’s third on the evening on 76 minutes, heading home to put the result beyond doubt.
In stoppage-time, an own goal by Aymen Hussein, who had briefly levelled the scoring in the first half, rounded off the scoring.
“My first goal was nice, the second even nicer so it’s fantastic and I’m proud of everyone that we could get off to a good start,” Haaland said.
“We know though that the next games will be even tougher and we will have to play even better.”
Iraq head coach Graham Arnold said in quotes broadcast on BBC: “I thought the boys did exceptionally well first half, a couple of mistakes hurt us badly.
“What a great occasion this has been for Iraq. So many fans here and a great atmosphere, so it’s a special night.”
