Solbakken Proud of Norway's World Cup Achievement

Stale Solbakken, the coach of the Norwegian national football team, voiced immense pride in his players' achievements during the 2026 World Cup. Although Norway was eliminated in the quarter-finals after a 2-1 defeat to England, their journey marked a significant return to the global stage after a long absence.

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We competed at the highest level. The difference was just a margin that did not favor us. That's football, and now we need to rest for a while.

Norway's performance was a surprise to many, as they advanced to the quarter-finals for the first time since 1998. Their impressive run included a notable victory over Brazil in the Round of 16. In the match against England, Andreas Schjelderup initially put Norway ahead before Jude Bellingham equalized before halftime and scored the winning goal in extra time.

"We competed at the highest level. The difference was just a margin that did not favor us. That's football, and now we need to rest for a while," Solbakken stated after the match. He added, "In the first 20 minutes, we struggled a bit, but I am truly proud of what the players showed."

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In the first 20 minutes, we struggled a bit, but I am truly proud of what the players showed.

Throughout the tournament held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Norway captured attention not only with the dynamic play of star Erling Haaland but also with the unique "rowing" celebration adopted by their fans, which became a phenomenon at each match. Solbakken hopes the "summer of 2026 will bring joy to all Norwegians." He emphasized the special bond formed within the team during their six-and-a-half-week campaign, noting the "extraordinary support from the entire country."

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I hope the summer of 2026 will bring joy to all Norwegians. We did something special together and received extraordinary support from the entire country.