Erling Haaland is Norway's World Cup machine -- and the internet's babygirl

Erling Haaland is Norway's World Cup machine — and the internet's babygirl highlights how the Norwegian striker’s on-field scoring has merged with a breakout social-media persona. Haaland scored seven goals across four World Cup matches before his team’s 2-1 loss to England on Saturday, earning descriptions such as a “machine.” At the same time, fans have boosted his popularity with memes and playful posts, pointing to his appearance, including blond hair and coordinated accessories, as well as goofy filters and reactions online. The AP describes viewers calling him “babygirl,” reflecting a wider trend of soccer players becoming pop-culture figures through off-pitch self-presentation. Stories cited include a viral jersey hunt by a 31-year-old content creator in New York and Haaland’s engagement with online jokes, such as a side-eye response to a comparison that went viral. The report also notes his use of Instagram, YouTube vlogs, and Snapchat interactions.