The 2026 FIFA World Cup produced one of its most bizarre moments on Tuesday during the match between Iraq and Norway at Gillette Stadium. While Erling Haaland had already scored twice to give Norway a 2-1 halftime lead, it was an unexpected new “star” that stole the spotlight: a completely out-of-control sprinkler.
As the players headed to the dressing rooms at halftime, part of the stadium’s irrigation system near the penalty area suddenly turned into a giant geyser. For several seconds, a powerful stream of water blasted onto the pitch, soaking an area in front of the goal where Haaland had just wreaked havoc.
A Water Show Stops Play
Faced with the surprise fountain, stadium officials had no choice but to shut down the entire irrigation system. The only problem was that every other sprinkler was working perfectly. Still, allowing a miniature aquatic volcano to continue erupting in the middle of a World Cup match was not exactly an option.
The grounds crew quickly became the heroes of the moment. Armed with buckets, tools, and plenty of determination, they rushed onto the field as amused spectators watched the scene unfold. Workers splashed through the growing puddle, trying to redirect the excess water and restore order before the second half.
Broken Sprinkler During World Cup Match🥸 pic.twitter.com/z4TQ87impq
— UFO mania (@maniaUFO) June 17, 2026
At half time during Iraq vs Norway the sprinklers malfunction and caused a lake in the box 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/t484h0y7zs
— The 44 ⚽️ (@The_Forty_Four) June 17, 2026
Fortunately, the impromptu lake was cleared in time and the affected section of the pitch appeared back to normal when the teams returned. Norway could then focus on protecting its lead, while the runaway sprinkler earned an unlikely place among the most memorable moments of the tournament so far.
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