Haaland: 2026 World Cup Changed My Life Despite Quarterfinal Exit

Erling Haaland described his country's historic 2026 World Cup appearance as a life-changing experience. Despite Norway's 2-1 quarterfinal defeat to England, the Manchester City striker felt the tournament had a profound personal impact.

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It all feels surreal. I think this tournament has changed me as a person. I also feel like I've grown, you could say.

"It all feels surreal. I think this tournament has changed me as a person. I also feel like I've grown, you could say," Haaland told FIFA. He acknowledged the disappointment of not reaching the semifinals but emphasized immense pride in leading Norway to its best World Cup performance ever.

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It's hard to digest everything that's happened when I look back at the matches we've played. But it feels incredibly special to be a part of a tournament I've only ever watched from afar, and now to experience it firsthand.

Haaland highlighted the sense of national unity and the passion felt both in Norway and at the tournament. He specifically recalled the team's surprising victory over Brazil in the round of 16 as proof of their capability. "We proved we were capable of beating one of the biggest teams in the world, Brazil," he said, adding that they made England work hard for their win.

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I feel immense pride. I'm truly moved when I think about how well we performed, the sense of unity created in Norway, and the passion and happiness we felt, both at home and here.

The Norwegian striker believes this achievement has placed Norway on the global football map. "Now our job is to maintain that standard," he stated, expressing optimism for the future. He is confident that Norway's "golden generation" has the potential to compete in upcoming tournaments like the 2028 European Championship and the 2030 World Cup.

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This has been a goal of mine for a long time. I think after this tournament we've put Norway on the world football map. Now our job is to maintain that standard.