FIFA World Cup 2026: "Thank you for making it so special", Haaland after Norway's memorable WC run
Florida, July 13
Norway striker Erling Haaland thanked fans for their support after his side's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign came to an end with a 2-1 defeat to England in the quarter-finals.
Taking to X, the Manchester City forward reflected on Norway's memorable run in the tournament and expressed his gratitude to supporters.
"It's been quite a ride, thank you for making it so special," Haaland wrote on X.
Norway's historic World Cup journey ended after England secured a 2-1 victory to book a place in the semi-finals, where they will face defending champions Argentina, who defeated Switzerland 3-1.
Norway had taken the lead in Miami through Andreas Schjelderup after a bright opening spell in which Erling Haaland also tested Jordan Pickford.
However, Bellingham struck in first-half stoppage time to restore parity before scoring again in extra time after goalkeeper Orjan Nyland spilt a Morgan Rogers effort into his path.
England eventually secured a 2-1 victory to book a semi-final clash against defending champions Argentina, bringing an end to Norway's best-ever FIFA World Cup campaign.
The quarter-final marked a historic milestone for Norway, which reached the last eight for the first time in tournament history after returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
Despite the heartbreaking exit, Erling Haaland enjoyed another outstanding tournament. 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.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm not a big football fan, but even I had to notice Haaland's form – 7 goals is insane! Norway's first time in quarters since 1998, that's something to be proud of. Respect to both teams for a cracking match. England vs Argentina semis should be lit! 🔥
Heartbreaking for Norway, but they've made their nation proud. Haaland's message shows class – he's a true sportsman. As an Indian, I wish our football got this level of passion and investment. Maybe one day we'll see India in the knockout stages too. Inshallah! 🙏⚽
Love seeing a small nation like Norway make waves! Haaland's gratitude is genuine. But let's be honest, that goalkeeping error by Nyland on the second goal was costly. Reminds me of some Indian Premier League cricket blunders – these things happen under pressure. Great run though!
Haaland is a machine! Scoring in every group match and then in knockouts – that's world-class consistency. Norway's run was like an underdog story straight out of a movie. Feel bad for them, but England earned it. Hope our Indian football team takes inspiration from this grit! 🏆
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