Erling Haaland’s journey in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup concluded when England defeated Norway in the quarterfinals in Miami on Saturday, July 11. Yet, Haaland remains in the spotlight. The renowned Norway and Manchester City striker returned to Norway with his teammates on Monday, July 13. The Norwegian men’s national team, known as the Herrelandslaget, shared an Instagram post showing the players disembarking from their plane. Haaland’s photo, notably, gained significant attention as he was seen carrying a taxidermied raccoon.

Haaland humorously posted on X, “It followed me home [raccoon emoji, crying-laughing emoji].” According to Joe Pompliano, Haaland brought back a $750 Whiskey Raccoon from Wild Bill’s Western Store in Dallas, Texas, saying, “What an authentic piece of American culture.”

Texas holds sentimental value for Haaland after Norway achieved its first-ever World Cup knockout stage win against Côte d’Ivoire in the Round of 32 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on June 30. Following the match, Haaland documented his shopping adventure where he purchased a black cowboy hat, leather cowboy boots, and a black t-shirt reading, “Y’ALL CAN KISS MY DALLAS.” Evidently, he also acquired the taxidermied raccoon as a unique memento of his World Cup debut.

Throughout the tournament, Haaland impressed with seven goals over five matches, including a memorable brace in Norway’s surprising victory over Brazil in the Round of 16.

As fans look ahead, the semifinals feature top-ranked teams. France and Spain will compete on Tuesday, July 14, while England will face reigning champion Argentina on Wednesday, July 15. The World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19. Haaland is expected to share his thoughts from a distance on social media.