Norway fell 2-1 to England in extra time in Miami. And although the dream ended, Erling Haaland left the World Cup more beloved than ever.
Think about it: a country that had gone 28 years without playing in a World Cup made it all the way to the quarterfinals, and along the way brought down giant Brazil with a brace from him. He finished with seven goals, at the top of the scoring charts, neck and neck with Messi and Mbappé. The “android” many feared also turned out to be a charismatic guy, with an easy smile, who won over the internet.
He fought until the end. He headed, ran, caused problems, until an injury took him off the pitch in the decisive stretch. When he left, the entire stadium, opponents included, stood up.
The Vikings rowed together throughout the tournament. And although this time they did not reach the other shore, they left behind something that lasts longer than a result: the certainty that Norway is back, and that its captain is from another planet.
Thank you for the World Cup, Erling. You will return. 🇳🇴⚡