FIFA World Cup 2026: "Special game", says Haaland ahead of Norway's QF clash with England
Florida, July 10
Norway's star Erling Haaland described the World Cup quarter-final clash against England as a special occasion, acknowledging the unique nature of facing the country where he was born.
While urging his team to remain humble, Haaland said Norway should be confident of its chances and expressed excitement about competing against familiar teammates in a high-stakes clash.
"I think for me it's super special because I play in England and I'm born in England, and you also play against teammates and everything. So it's a bit, not weird, but it's a funny game, and it's going to be nice," he said as per Sky Sports.
"I think there are some clear favourites out there. I think England is one of them, so I think every single one of you should put pressure on the English lads!" he added.
England head into the quarter-final on the back of one of their most memorable away victories, with Jude Bellingham's brace inspiring a dramatic 3-2 win over Mexico at the Azteca despite being reduced to 10 men.
Norway, meanwhile, produced one of the tournament's biggest shocks by eliminating five-time champions Brazil.
An Erling Haaland brace powered the Norwegians to a stunning 2-1 victory in the Round of 16, setting up a high-stakes clash with England.
England have only won two of their last seven meetings against Norway, going back to an infamous 1-2 loss in a FIFA World Cup qualifier in 1981.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting how Haaland is playing mind games by telling the media to put pressure on England. Smart move! But let's be real - England's depth is unreal. Bellingham's performance against Mexico shows they can handle adversity. Should be a cracking quarterfinal. 🙌
As a neutral fan from India, I hope Norway wins this one. Haaland is a generational talent and it would be something special if they go all the way. But England are proper favourites - they've got that winning mentality now. Still, football is unpredictable and that's why we love it! 🏆
Okay but can we talk about that 1981 result? England have only beaten Norway twice in seven meetings? That stat is wild. History might be on Norway's side, but current form says England. I just hope it's an end-to-end game with no VAR controversies. 🫣
Haaland saying he wants the media to put pressure on England is such a boss move. Norway are underdogs but they've got nothing to lose. England's win over Mexico was impressive, especially with 10 men, but Norway's defence will be a different test. Can't wait for this one! 🔥
Honestly, I'm a bit tired of all the Haaland hype. Yes, he's brilliant, but football is a team sport and Norway will need everyone to step up against England. England's midfield is stacked - Rice, Bellingham, Foden. Let's see if Norway can handle that. 🤞
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