Erling Haaland’s dream FIFA World Cup that debut came to an end on Saturday when Norway lost in the quarter-finals, but the striker believes the tournament has changed the way football is played in his country. Norway’s remarkable campaign ended with a 2-1 extra-time defeat to England, an end to a run that captured the attention of fans around the world. Haaland was substituted with 15 minutes remaining and watched from the bench as Jude Bellingham’s goal sent the Three Lions into the semifinals. As Norway missed out on a place in the last four, Haaland finished the tournament with seven goals and established himself as one of the tournament’s leading scorers. Reflecting on the trip, the Manchester City player described the experience as unforgettable. “This has been the coldest six weeks I’ve had in my entire life,” the 25-year-old was quoted as saying by Xinhua. “It was absolutely crazy. This is the memory of a lifetime. It’s the most fun I’ve ever had.” The quarterfinal was tough, with players battling the heat and humidity in Miami. Haaland admitted that things were difficult but refused to use it as an excuse for defeat. “It was difficult. It was very special to play in that humidity,” Haaland said. “I don’t want to make any excuses. Quarterfinals are decided by small things, and sometimes we were against ourselves.” One of the key talking points came when Norway conceded a goal following a VAR review that penalized Haaland for fouling England midfielder Elliot Anderson. The shooter disagreed with the decision. “I felt like I was being pulled all the way, and I think it was a soft decision,” Haaland said. “If it’s a free kick, then I should have a free kick in almost every duel in every game.” Despite the disappointment, Haaland believes Norway’s performance has left an impact. The team’s run to the quarterfinals, and the popularity of the supporters’ “Viking row” celebrations, turned Norway into one of the tournament’s biggest stories. The song, sung by fans and players, became popular on social networks and in the cities where the tournament was held. “How we put Norway on the map is something that really affects me,” Haaland said. “I hope this gives inspiration to young people in Norway that it is possible. It is possible to play on the biggest stage in the world with a Norwegian t-shirt.” The tournament also marked a reunion with Bellingham, Haaland’s close friend and former Borussia Dortmund team-mate. The England international scored both goals that ended Norway’s World Cup dreams. However, Haaland had nothing but praise for his friend. “Jude is a good friend… He’s a good person,” Haaland said. “I’m not surprised he did what he did. England are lucky, [Real] Madrid is lucky, because everyone would want Juda in their team. “ Born in Leeds before representing Norway internationally, Haaland admitted he will continue to follow England’s progress in the game. “I think I got the England jersey before I got the Norway jersey as a kid, so I want England to do well,” he said. Looking back on Norway’s campaign, Haaland believes the team has already taken steps to prove they can compete in the football world. “I have said many times, we are building something in Norway. I think it is already built,” he said. “We have shown that it is possible to beat one of the biggest soccer nations in the world, Brazil. We gave England a good fight.” With the tournament now behind him, Haaland is looking forward to a break after six grueling weeks. “I’m done now, I can say it frankly,” Haaland concluded, looking forward to a quiet holiday after an exciting game. “It’s been a lot of shows, a lot of feelings. I’m very happy with my life. I’m in a good place.”
