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Before Erling Haaland and Norway take on Brazil in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Striking Viking was asked about his side’s chances of beating the five-time world champions.
“Um…very thin,” Haaland said.
The next day, Norway stunned the five-time champions 2-1 at New York New Jersey Stadium, and Haaland scored both goals.
(Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
With Norway now in the semi-finals against an England team that nearly collapsed in their round of 16 tie against Mexico, does Haaland like Norway’s chances of winning the tournament more than before?
“Still very low,” Haaland told reporters.
But there’s reason to believe Haaland’s timid approach is intentional.
“I think there are clear favorites, England is one of them. I think you should all put the pressure on the England guys,” Haaland said.
Haaland’s lead was consistent throughout the tournament. Before Norway’s final group stage match against France, where Haaland remained on the bench and France won 4-1, he expressed a relaxed outlook.
“We made it, we managed to qualify, which is incredible,” Haaland said at the time. “So I didn’t care too much about that match now. They [France] will probably win against us, they will probably win the whole tournament. »
After the group stage, Norway beat Ivory Coast, then beat Brazil in the round of 16. Haaland scored in both matches, including two goals against Brazil.
“Playing Brazil was a little crazy for us Norwegians. And winning against Brazil and then going to play England in the quarterfinals of the World Cup, in the United States, it’s pretty special,” Haaland said Thursday. “And think if you look at the scenes in Norway, it’s not normal for Norway, so it’s super special.”
The winner of Saturday’s match between Norway and England in Miami will advance to the semi-finals against Argentina or Switzerland.
