Haaland Proud of Norway's World Cup Breakthrough Despite Quarter-final Heartbreak

Posted : 12 July 2026

Erling Haaland believes Norway's impressive FIFA World Cup campaign has transformed the country's football landscape, even after their dream run ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat to England in the quarter-finals. The striker said the team's achievements had inspired a new generation of young players and proved Norway can compete with the world's elite.

Haaland was unable to extend his remarkable scoring streak in Miami, failing to find the net for the first time in 15 competitive appearances for his country. Before the defeat, the Manchester City forward had scored seven goals during Norway's historic World Cup journey, including a match-winning brace that eliminated five-time champions Brazil in the Round of 16.

Reflecting on the tournament, the 25-year-old said Norway's performances had put the nation firmly on the global football map. He expressed hope that the team's success would motivate young players across the country and help establish Norway as a regular participant at major international tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship.

Haaland also acknowledged the overwhelming attention he received during the tournament, with his goals and personality earning admiration from supporters around the world, particularly in the United States. He described the past six weeks as an unforgettable experience and believes the campaign has changed both him personally and the future of Norwegian football.

The Norwegian captain reserved special praise for England match-winner Jude Bellingham, his former Borussia Dortmund teammate. Haaland described the Real Madrid midfielder as one of the finest players in world football, highlighting his ability to score goals while controlling games from midfield. He added that every national team would benefit from having a player of Bellingham's quality.

Haaland's evening ended early after he was substituted midway through extra time as fatigue and the intense Miami heat took their toll. Norway coach Ståle Solbakken revealed the striker had also suffered a dead leg during the match and admitted he may have waited too long before replacing his star forward. Despite the disappointment, Solbakken praised Haaland's outstanding tournament, noting his seven goals in five matches were instrumental in Norway's memorable World Cup run.

Although Norway fell one step short of a first-ever World Cup semi-final, the tournament marked the nation's best performance in nearly three decades and provided renewed optimism that Haaland and his teammates can build on their success in future international competitions.

Haaland Proud of Norway's World Cup Breakthrough Despite Quarter-final Heartbreak

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