Erling Haaland Balances Parenting and World Cup Preparations

As the FIFA World Cup approaches, Erling Haaland is balancing his role as a new father with the excitement of the tournament. With Norway's first match against Iraq looming, Haaland shares parenting advice with teammate Leo Ostigard, who will miss the birth of his child. The team is enjoying downtime in Greensboro, North Carolina, engaging in golf and gaming to bond and relieve stress. Haaland expresses eagerness for the tournament, hoping for a successful start. This World Cup marks Norway's fourth appearance, aiming to improve on their previous best finish.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 13, 2026, 04:52 IST

Parenting Insights and World Cup Readiness

As the FIFA World Cup approaches, Manchester City and Norway star Erling Haaland is juggling various activities, including training, video games, and sharing parenting advice. With the opening match against Iraq on the horizon, Haaland is keeping busy with golf, gaming, and offering tips to his teammate Leo Ostigard, who is about to become a father.

Haaland, who welcomed his first child last year, empathizes with Ostigard, who will miss the birth of his child due to the tournament. In a recent interview on Norway's World Cup YouTube channel, "Spillerhotellet" (The Players' Hotel), Haaland advised Ostigard to be present for the birth, emphasizing the importance of this new chapter in his life.

Relaxation and Team Camaraderie

The Norwegian team is based in Greensboro, North Carolina, where they have engaged in rigorous training alongside moments of relaxation. Haaland has introduced Ostigard to golf as part of their downtime activities.

Ostigard shared, "There has been a lot of golf; I’m just starting out, but Erling is quite skilled, making it enjoyable to play together." Haaland added, "Everyone has their own interests. While some play cards, we prefer golf, joking around, and enjoying games like Super Mario and Pokémon. We know how to have fun together."

Eager for the Tournament Kickoff

Haaland expressed his excitement about the tournament, admitting he is feeling a bit anxious as the first match approaches. He stated, "It’s just about getting through the first game and hoping for the best."

Norway's World Cup Path

Norway is competing in Group I alongside France, Iraq, and Senegal. This marks only the fourth time Norway has participated in the FIFA World Cup, with their best performance being a round of 16 finish in 1998.

Norway's Squad Overview

Norway's squad includes:
- Goalkeepers: Orjan Haskjold Nyland, Egil Selvik, Sander Tangvik.
- Defenders: Kristoffer Vassbakk Ajer, Fredrik Bjorkan, Henrik Falchener, Sondre Langas, Torbjorn Heggem, Marcus Holmgren Pedersen, Julian Ryerson, David Moller Wolfe, Leo Ostigard.
- Midfielders: Thelonious Aasgaard, Fredrik Aursnes, Patrick Berg, Sander Berge, Oscar Bobb, Jens Petter Hauge, Antonio Nusa, Andreas Schjelderup, Morten Thorsby, Kristian Thorstvedt, Martin Odegaard.
- Forwards: Erling Haaland, Jorgen Strand Larsen, Alexander Sorloth.