Erling Haaland reflected on Norway’s FIFA World Cup 2026 journey after their quarter-final exit following a 2-1 defeat to England, www.aclsports.com reports.
The Norway forward, who finished his first World Cup campaign with seven goals, admitted the difficult conditions affected the match but refused to make excuses after their memorable run came to an end.
“It was really tough. Playing in those conditions, with that humidity, was something special. It was difficult, but that’s football. I’m not going to make excuses.
“It’s just heartbreaking that the World Cup is over,” he said.
Haaland also reacted to the controversial moments from the match, including Norway’s claims that Ørjan Nyland’s long ball struck the spidercam cable and the disallowed Norway goal after he was penalised for a foul on Elliot Anderson.
“Some people believe it changed the ball’s flight, but it’s impossible for me to say for certain.
“As for the Elliot Anderson incident, if that’s a foul, then I should get a free-kick in almost every duel I play. I’m pushed and pulled throughout every game. I thought it was a very soft decision.”
Despite the disappointment, Haaland praised Norway’s run at the tournament, describing the experience as one of the greatest periods of his life.
“Honestly, these have been the best six weeks, maybe the best period of my life. It’s been surreal.
“Right now it’s difficult to process because after a game like this you’re emotionally drained and disappointed. But these are memories that will stay with me forever.”
Haaland believes Norway’s performances, including their victory over Brazil, have helped put the country back on the football map.
“The performances were one thing. Beating Brazil was another. But what means the most to me is how we’ve put Norway back on the football map. We have a great group of people, and I’m proud of that. Hopefully this is just the beginning.”
He also praised Jude Bellingham after the England midfielder scored twice in the quarter-final win, describing him as one of the best players in the world.
“Jude is a good friend. We spent two great years together at Dortmund and have stayed in touch ever since. I’m not surprised he scored two goals today or performed the way he did. He’s one of the best players in the world.”
Reflecting on Norway’s future, Haaland said the team has built something special.
“I really believe this tournament has changed Norway. It’s changed me too. We’re building something in Norway. Actually, I think we’ve already built it. Now it’s about maintaining that level.”
He added that fine margins decided the quarter-final tie against England.
“We’ve shown that it’s possible. We beat one of the biggest football nations in the world in Brazil. Today we lost to England, but we gave them a real fight. At this level, football is decided by the smallest details,” he said.
