FIFA World Cup 2026: Haaland bids "emotional" goodbye to USA after Norway's quarter-final exit
Florida, July 13
Norway striker Erling Haaland bid an emotional farewell to the FIFA World Cup 2026 co-hosts USA after his country's historic campaign ended with a 2-1 defeat to England in the quarter-finals.
In an Instagram post on Monday, the Manchester City forward wrote, "Goodbye US It's been emotional!"
Norway's memorable World Cup run came to an end as England secured a 2-1 win to advance to the semi-finals, where they will face defending champions Argentina, who defeated Switzerland 3-1.
Norway had made a bright start in Miami, taking the lead through Andreas Schjelderup after an impressive opening spell in which Haaland also tested England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
However, Jude Bellingham equalised in first-half stoppage time before scoring the winner in extra time after goalkeeper Orjan Nyland failed to hold Morgan Rogers' effort, allowing the ball to fall into Bellingham's path. England held on for a 2-1 victory, ending Norway's best-ever FIFA World Cup campaign.
The quarter-final appearance marked a historic achievement for Norway, who reached the last eight for the first time in World Cup history after returning to the tournament for the first time since 1998.
Despite the elimination, Haaland enjoyed a stellar campaign. The striker scored in every group-stage match as well as in the Round of 32 and Round of 16, finishing as Norway's top scorer with seven goals to his name.
After Norway's World Cup exit, Haaland reflected on the experience as a life-changing moment, saying the tournament has changed him as a person.
He expressed pride in representing his country on the biggest stage, highlighting the team's strong performances, the unity among Norwegians, and the joy and positivity generated throughout their historic campaign.
"These things are surreal; I think this has changed me as a person. I think my profile has grown a bit, let's put it that way, and... It's hard to even process it all right now when I look back at the games, but it's incredibly special to be part of an event like this - something I used to watch from the sidelines, and now I'm living it first-hand," Haaland said, as per the FIFA website.
"I feel immense pride, and I'm genuinely moved when I think about how well we performed, the sense of unity back in Norway, and the positivity and joy we've felt both there and here," he added.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Haaland's farewell post was so touching. It's not easy to see a player so passionate about representing his country. I hope India can one day reach such heights in football. The tournament has been a treat to watch! 🇮🇳🙌
England looked shaky but Bellingham stepped up when it mattered. Haaland scored in every group game - what a machine! Norway should hold their heads high. Looking forward to the semi-finals now. Argentina vs England will be epic!
As an Indian who loves football, this World Cup has been amazing. So many underdog stories. Norway's journey reminds me of how we cheer for our cricket team - with full heart, even in defeat. Haaland is just pure class, on and off the field. 🐐
Loving the energy of this World Cup in the USA! Haaland's statement about being changed as a person is so inspiring - shows how sports transform us. But honestly, I wish India was playing too. One day, maybe our football infrastructure will get there. 🙏⚽
Respect to Norway for their best ever World Cup run. Haaland's seven goals are insane. But I think they could have defended better in that extra time. Still, it's a learning experience for a young squad. Bellingham vs Haaland is the new Ronaldo vs Messi rivalry brewing? 🤔
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