Erling Haaland carries taxidermied raccoon souvenir from Dallas store after World Cup match
Norwegian striker Erling Haaland was seen with a taxidermied raccoon holding a bottle, a souvenir purchased at Wild Bill's Western in Dallas, during his team's return to Oslo following a World Cup loss.
Norwegian forward Erling Haaland arrived in Oslo on July 13 carrying a taxidermied raccoon that holds a bottle, a novelty item he bought at Wild Bill's Western store in Dallas. The "Whiskey Raccoon" was purchased after Norway's 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in the World Cup round of 32. Haaland posted on X that the figure "followed me home" and asked fans to suggest a name, offering options such as Cowboy, Ranger, TEX and R.O.W. (Raccoon On Wheels). Video posted to his YouTube channel shows him selecting cowboy hats and other apparel at the store, and he later wore a shirt printed with "Y’all can kiss my Dallas," which appears on the retailer’s website.
Julie Newport, owner of Wild Bill's Western, said the store considered the attention "really special" for a small business. She noted that the $750 raccoon is a limited-edition piece because the taxidermist who supplies it has retired, and the item was listed as sold out on the day of Haaland's visit, though the website indicated new stock was pending.
Haaland, who also plays for Manchester City, has drawn additional media interest during Norway's World Cup campaign, engaging with American fans and commenting that he enjoys the humor and friendliness of U.S. supporters.