Erling Haaland required stitches to his mouth after an accident involving Norway’s team bus ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Moldova.
The Manchester City striker, who had scored the winner in Thursday’s 1-0 friendly victory over Finland, was struck in the face by a luggage compartment door as the squad arrived at their team hotel in Oslo.
Witnesses, per The Sun, said the 24-year-old cried out in pain after the impact.
He was immediately treated by team doctor Ola Sand and senior security adviser Geir Ellefsen, who helped him into the hotel for assessment.
Erling Haaland required stitches to his mouth after an accident involving Norway’s team bus ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Moldova
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Haaland sustained a cut to his upper lip that required three stitches.
Later that evening, he posted a selfie on social media showing the wound and wrote: “Just got banged out by a bus door. 3 stitches.”
When one supporter asked whether he had been punched, Haaland played along with the joke.
“Hahahaha wrong answers only,” he replied.
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Another fan suggested Martin Odegaard, the Norway captain and Arsenal midfielder, had been responsible.
Haaland quipped back: “Correct.”
Despite the incident, the former Borussia Dortmund star is expected to be available for Norway’s qualifier in Oslo.
His presence will be crucial as Stale Solbakken’s side look to extend their perfect record in Group I.
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Erling Haaland interacted with fans after his facial injury
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Norway lead the standings with four wins from four, ahead of Israel, Italy, Estonia and Moldova.
The episode adds to the catalogue of unusual moments in Haaland’s career.
Known as much for his playful personality off the pitch as his ruthless finishing on it, the forward appeared keen to diffuse concern by sharing humour with fans.
His relaxed response reflected the confidence of a player who has carried his prolific form for Manchester City into international duty.
Haaland started the campaign well, scoring twice as City beat Wolves 4-0.
After drawing a blank against Tottenham the following week, in a match his team lost 2-0, he responded by netting in a 2-1 defeat to Brighton.
Once the international break is over, Haaland will set his sights on downing Manchester United.
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Erling Haaland joked that Martin Odegaard punched him
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Ruben Amorim's side will visit the Etihad next weekend in one of the biggest matches of the season so far.
One player who won't be involved for United is Andre Onana.
The Cameroon international is poised to join Trabzonspor on loan, having struggled for consistency ever since his arrival two years ago.