Erling Haaland has returned home from the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an unusual souvenir after Norway's memorable run came to an end.
The Norwegian striker was spotted arriving back in Oslo following his side's 2-1 quarter-final defeat to England, carrying a collection of purchases from his time in the United States.
Among them was a taxidermied raccoon clutching a bottle of whiskey – a quirky item known as the "Whiskey Raccoon".
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Haaland bought the unusual keepsake during a visit to Wild Bill's Western Store in Dallas, Texas, where he also picked up a cowboy hat, a pair of boots and a T-shirt reading, "Y'all Can Kiss My Dallas."
The Manchester City forward was photographed carrying the raccoon alongside a Dolce & Gabbana tote bag as he arrived back in Norway.
Haaland has kept fans entertained throughout the tournament with regular social media updates and even asked followers to help name his newest purchase.
In an Instagram Story poll, fans were invited to choose between four names: Cowbody, Ranger, TEX and R.O.W. (Raccoon On Wheels), with R.O.W. emerging as the early favourite.
Instagram story, 13.07.2026, Erling Braut Haaland
The 25-year-old also made headlines during the World Cup for Norway's now-famous "Viking Row" celebration, which quickly became one of the tournament's most recognisable moments.
The celebration became so popular that Google created a special animation. Fans searching for Haaland or the Viking Row celebration were greeted by a line of animated Viking rowers across the bottom of the search page, along with a button that recreated the celebratory drum beat.
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Haaland led the celebration on the pitch after Norway's victory over Brazil, beating the drum while his teammates joined in the rowing motion.
Norway national football team striker Erling Haaland during UEFA Nations League match Norway vs Kazakhstan, 2024. Alizada Studios, Shutterstock
Although Norway's World Cup dream ended in the quarter-finals, Haaland enjoyed an outstanding tournament.
The striker scored seven goals in four World Cup matches and extended his remarkable run of scoring in 14 consecutive competitive games for his country.
While he narrowly missed out on lifting the trophy, Haaland leaves the tournament having reinforced his reputation as one of world football's biggest stars, with his goals, celebrations and sense of humour all proving a hit with fans.
