[Saba Sports News] According to German media, though Peru failed to qualify for the World Cup, an Erling Haaland naming craze has swept newborn registrations across the country. Reports state that 468 children nationwide have been given the single name Haaland, while another 91 bear the full name Erling Haaland. Iván Torres, a spokesperson for Peru’s civil registry authority, told the press: “Football superstars are a major source of inspiration for Peruvians when naming their children.” He also joked, “Haaland is a Peruvian too.” Prior to this trend, there were already 3,402 people named Lionel Messi in Peru, 292 of whom carry the Argentine icon’s full given name. The Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo has 1,185 namesakes in the nation, and 1,241 locals share the name of Spanish rising talent Lamine Yamal. Meanwhile, Brazilian forward Neymar tops the list with a staggering 33,809 Peruvians bearing his name.
The editor believes that this deep passion for football has long inspired new parents in Peru, who pass on their admiration for football stars to their children.