Erling Haaland is not yet interested in undressing Norway as World Cup conqueror. After scoring twice for the second successive game as they beat Senegal 3-2 to progress, the striker’s message was simple: enjoy it while it lasts.
Haaland’s brace took him to four goals in the tournament, level with French striker Kylian Mbappe and one behind Lionel Messi, as Norway moved top of Group I with six points ahead of Friday’s meeting to decide top spot.
Asked about the confrontation with France, Haaland gave a candid answer. “I don’t care, we’re done,” he told reporters. “They’ll probably beat us and go on and win the whole tournament.”
Norway reached the knockout stages in their first World Cup appearance since 1998 and Haaland, who has now scored 59 goals in 52 caps, said the achievement should not be lost amid talk of what could happen next.
Asked if this could be his World Cup, the Manchester City forward replied: «It depends what you mean by that. To qualify and get through the group stage for the first time in 28 years, yes, I would say so.»
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«To win the World Cup, absolutely not. I think we have to be a little realistic here, and let’s be happy, every Norwegian on the planet today.»
The joy surrounding Norway’s campaign was evident before kick-off as supporters gathered in Times Square and captivated the Americans with their rowing celebration, which the players recreated on the pitch after their victory.
“It was crazy,” said Haaland, 25. “Martin (Odegaard) and I talked about it a bit before the match, about whether we should participate if everything went the way it did, and it did, so a pretty special moment for the whole of Norway I would say.”
«I think this is right up there with the biggest nights I’ve had in my entire life. I have a bit of the same feeling as after the Champions League final (win) in 2023. It’s incredibly big. I’m incredibly proud and all that.
«I want to achieve things with Norway. I want to qualify for the World Cup, the European Championship and everything there is. Again, the bottom line is that it is possible, no matter where you come from. The World Cup is without a doubt the biggest stage. It is huge. Absolutely fantastic.»
Published on June 23, 2026
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