Erling Haaland returns to Oslo with taxidermied raccoon souvenir
After Norway's World Cup quarter-final loss, striker Erling Haaland arrived in Oslo carrying a taxidermied raccoon holding a whiskey bottle, a purchase made during his recent trip to Dallas.
Erling Haaland landed at Oslo Airport on Saturday following Norway's 2-1 defeat to England in the World Cup quarter-finals. While his performance and a viral rap remix dominated social media, a photo of the striker exiting the aircraft attracted attention for a different reason. Haaland was seen carrying a taxidermied raccoon that holds a miniature whiskey bottle, a novelty item he bought at a Dallas shop called Wild Bills. The raccoon, listed as a "Whiskey Raccoon H-MT-F," is valued at about $750. Reports also note that he purchased several cowboy-style hats, boots and a T-shirt bearing the phrase "Y’all can kiss my Dallas." The unusual souvenir quickly spread across online platforms, generating numerous comments and memes.
"As Atlanta prepares to host an upcoming FIFA World Cup semi-final match and welcomes increased numbers of residents and visitors, the Atlanta Police Department has enhanced its citywide public safety and security posture," a police statement read, outlining heightened security measures for the upcoming match between England and Argentina.
The raccoon keepsake has become a trending topic, illustrating the continued public interest in Haaland's off-field activities despite Norway's tournament exit.