Haaland’s World Cup goals trigger "earthquake" in Norway

Goals scored by Norway striker Erling Haaland in his national team's opening group-stage match against Iraq at the 2026 FIFA World Cup triggered a micro-earthquake in the Norwegian city of Bergen, according to Jordskjelv.no.

The NORSAR Seismological Institute recorded vibrations that coincided with the timing of Haaland’s goals.

“The most intense tremors corresponded with Haaland’s goals, which sparked loud celebrations among Norwegian supporters,” NORSAR said in a statement.

Experts clarified that the event was not a conventional earthquake.

“When large numbers of people react simultaneously to certain events, their collective movements can generate ground vibrations that are detected by sensitive seismometers,” the institute explained.