Despite their disappointment with a 2-1 extra-time loss to England in the World Cup quarter-finals, Erling Haaland believes the country’s run of form has spurred a new generation of footballers.
Jude Bellingham’s double put England into the semi-finals as Manchester City’s striker failed to push his team to semi-finals.
Haaland was a key figure in the amazing World Cup run of the Norwegian side, as he netted seven goals, including two goals against Brazil, helping the team reach its first World Cup quarter-final in 28 years.
He recalled the campaign and how Norway had proved they were able to play with the best of the world’s footballers and said he hoped the team’s success would give youngsters hope that they too could excel on the planet’s biggest stage.
Read more: Haaland fires Norway into World Cup knockout stage
The 25-year-old further said that Norway needs to build upon this and go on to qualify for major tournaments to become a top football nation.
Haaland also congratulated his former Borussia Dortmund partner Jude Bellingham, calling him one of the world’s best players and describing England as ‘lucky to have such a complete midfielder’.
Haaland had to contend with the great Miami heat and a dead leg before being replaced during extra time.
Facing the high-pressure games over the past few weeks, Norway coach Stale Solbakken said he was feeling tired and suggested he should have changed out his leading striker sooner.
FAQs
Why did Erling Haaland leave the match before full-time?
Haaland was substituted in extra-time because of exhaustion, the extreme heat in Miami, and a dead leg suffered during the second half.
What did Haaland say about Norway’s World Cup campaign?
He said Norway had “put the country on the map” and hoped the team’s success would inspire young players while laying the foundation for future appearances at major tournaments.
Also read: Norway shock Brazil as Haaland shines and Neymar bids farewell
