Haaland Shatters Pele's Legendary Goal Record in Stunning Norway Hat-Trick Performance

Erling Haaland's treble for Norway on Saturday evening propelled him to 50 international strikes in fewer matches than Brazilian icon Pelé required.

Haaland's statement about feeling in peak condition is supported by the numbers. For his club, the Manchester City forward has netted 12 times in only nine outings and contributed three additional goals in a commanding 5–0 triumph against Israel on Saturday.

His second strike of the evening marked Haaland's 50th goal for Norway, achieved in merely his 46th international cap.

By reaching this milestone, Haaland joined an exclusive group as only the sixth male player to score 50 international goals in under 50 matches, becoming the first to accomplish this feat in 53 years.

He now sits fifth in the all-time rankings, surpassing Brazilian legend Pelé, who required 49 matches to achieve his 50th international goal.

While this comparison stands out remarkably, Haaland's scoring record compared to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi at equivalent stages of their international journeys is extraordinary. Following 46 international caps, Ronaldo had scored 17 goals for Portugal, whereas Messi had found the net just 13 times for Argentina.

"Words cannot capture his brilliance," declared Norway assistant coach Kent Bergersen. "No description can truly represent his talent. He finds the back of the net in every conceivable manner."

Fellow striker Alexander Sørloth commented: "You believe you've witnessed it all, but he continues to improve. There's nothing beyond his capabilities. His numbers are absolutely remarkable."

Haaland might have added to his tally on the evening. He missed an initial penalty before the official called for a retake, which the City forward again failed to score. "I realized he's from the same world as everyone else," joked manager Ståle Solbakken.

Quickest Players to Reach 50 International Goals