Erling Haaland is only days away from making his long-awaited FIFA World Cup debut, but before turning his attention fully to soccer’s biggest stage, the Norwegian star found himself captivated by a different sport entirely.
The Manchester City striker was among the notable spectators at Game 5 of the 2026 Stanley Cup Final between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Vegas Golden Knights. And judging by his social media activity throughout the game, Haaland left the Lenovo Center with a newfound love for hockey.
Before the puck even dropped, the soccer star shared his excitement with followers on Snapchat. “This is unbelievable and the game havent started yet,” he wrote while taking in the atmosphere inside the packed arena. As officials skated onto the ice before the game, Haaland was surprised at how fans even cheered for them.
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Moments later, the Norwegian striker delivered his verdict on the experience by writing, “New favorite sport.” He was able to find time for the NHL game, as Norway’s World Cup opener is scheduled for Tuesday. They face Iraq at Gillette Stadium, which will operate under the name Boston Stadium throughout the tournament.
Moreover, the trip to the Hurricanes’ game wasn’t far for Haaland, as Norway has established its base camp in Greensboro, North Carolina. The squad is staying at the Grandover Resort & Spa while conducting daily training and recovery sessions at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro facilities. Alongside the striker, fellow Norway internationals Leo Skiri Ostigard, Sander Berge, and Jorgen Strand Larsen also attended the game.
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Head coach Stale Solbakken was also spotted in the suite. The trip proved memorable as the Hurricanes earned a 4-2 win over the Golden Knights, taking a 3-2 lead in the series and moving within one win of securing the franchise’s second Stanley Cup championship. With Game 6 taking place at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena, Haaland will look to shift his focus back to the Norwegian side.
The 25-year-old is set to enter the World Cup after another prolific campaign, winning the 2025-26 Premier League Golden Boot with 27 goals in 35 appearances for Manchester City. It was his third straight Golden Boot win, leaving him just one shy of the all-time Premier League record.
Norway also arrives with growing confidence thanks to captain Martin Odegaard, who helped Arsenal win the Premier League title and reach the UEFA Champions League final. Combined with Haaland’s scoring consistency, Norway can be a real threat to other teams rather than being considered an underdog.