Erling Haaland has described Norway’s 2026 World Cup campaign as the most memorable period of his career, saying the tournament changed both his football life and his personal life.
The Manchester City forward, whose side reached the quarter-finals before losing to England, told VG that the past 40 days felt “completely crazy” and still difficult to take in.
Haaland said Norway’s biggest achievement went beyond results. He pointed to the national reaction back home, including thousands of supporters gathering outside the Royal Palace in Oslo to watch the England match, as proof of a country pulling together again.
“I feel this path changed both our country and me,” he said.
The Norway captain did acknowledge the disappointment of the defeat, and said his team felt it deserved more. He referenced contested refereeing decisions and moments he believed could have altered the result, but said he would rather focus on pride than regret.
“Only proud of the team,” Haaland said. “We have to be proud of this journey, learn from it and look ahead with more motivation.”
