Norway captain Erling Haaland says his country’s impressive run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has changed the perception of Norwegian football, despite their heartbreaking quarter-final exit to England.
Norway’s campaign came to an end on Saturday after suffering a 2-1 extra-time defeat to England in Miami, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice to send the Three Lions into the semi-finals.
Although Haaland failed to find the net for the first time in five matches at the tournament, the 25-year-old finished the World Cup with seven goals, helping Norway reach the quarter-finals of the competition for the first time in 28 years.
One of the biggest moments of Norway’s campaign came in the round of 16, where Haaland scored twice to eliminate five-time world champions Brazil.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, the Manchester City striker said the tournament has inspired young footballers back home.
“How we put Norway on the map is maybe one thing that touches me the most. Hopefully now we can establish something when it comes to Euros, World Cups and everything,” Haaland said.
He added that Norway’s success proves the country can compete with the world’s football giants.
“We’ve shown that it’s possible to be one of the biggest football nations in the world,” he said.
Haaland also praised England midfielder Jude Bellingham, his former Borussia Dortmund teammate, after the Real Madrid star inspired England’s victory.
“I think he’s one of the best in the world. England is lucky because everybody would want a Jude in the team,” Haaland said.
The striker was substituted during extra time after struggling with the intense Miami heat and suffering a dead leg.
Norway coach Stale Solbakken revealed that fatigue forced the decision to withdraw his star player.
“He scored seven goals in five games for us. A fantastic World Cup,” Solbakken said.
Despite the painful exit, Haaland believes Norway has laid a solid foundation for future success on the international stage.
Source: AFP.
