Erling Haaland has spoken about the lasting personal impact of representing Norway at the World Cup, admitting that the experience has changed him beyond the football pitch.
Norway’s memorable campaign ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat by England in Miami. Jude Bellingham scored both of England’s goals after Andreas Schjelderup had given Norway the lead, bringing the country’s first appearance in a World Cup quarter-final to an end.
Despite the disappointment, Haaland said Norway’s performances had created a sense of unity and pride at home.
Haaland proud of Norway’s impact
According to FIFA’s post-match interview with the Norwegian striker, Haaland was deeply moved by what the team had achieved during the tournament.
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“I am touched that we have done so well,” Haaland said.
“It has brought people together in Norway, and it has brought joy to everyone in Norway and over here.”
Norway had not appeared at a World Cup since 1998, but Ståle Solbakken’s side made an immediate impact on their return. They progressed from the group stage before recording the country’s first victories in the knockout rounds and reaching the last eight for the first time.
Tournament leaves a personal mark
Haaland admitted that he was still processing the defeat when he spoke after the final whistle, but said the tournament had affected him on a personal level.
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“It has changed me as a person too, and it’s hard to think so much about things right now because I’m thinking a lot about the match,” he said.
“But it’s a wild experience, and it’s something you have to experience.”
The Manchester City striker had been one of the defining players of Norway’s campaign, scoring seven goals before England became the first opponent at the tournament to keep him off the scoresheet.
He was eventually substituted during extra time after struggling with fatigue and a thigh problem in the demanding Miami conditions.
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Norway returns home with renewed belief
The quarter-final defeat ended Norway’s hopes of winning the tournament, but the team’s performances changed expectations surrounding a generation led by Haaland and Martin Ødegaard.
Before this World Cup, Norway had spent almost three decades away from football’s biggest stage. Their run in North America showed that the team could compete against leading international opponents and provided the country with moments that extended far beyond individual results.
For Haaland, the disappointment of elimination remained raw. His comments nevertheless suggested that the tournament would be remembered not only for his goals, but for the connection created between the players and the Norwegian public.
“It’s a wild experience,” he said, reflecting on a campaign that ended in defeat but established Norway as one of the tournament’s most compelling stories.
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