World Cup 2026: Erling Haaland admits facing England will be 'really special'

Norwegian striker Erling Haaland admitted that facing England in the World Cup quarterfinals in Miami will be "really special." Haaland, who was born in England and plays for Manchester City, acknowledged a sense of discomfort playing against his own countrymen and teammates.

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It's very special because I play in England, I was born in England and I'm going to play against teammates, so I'll feel a bit uncomfortable.

"It's very special because I play in England, I was born in England and I'm going to play against teammates, so I'll feel a bit uncomfortable," Haaland told reporters. With seven goals in the tournament, trailing only Lionel Messi's eight, Haaland stated he is "enjoying it very much."

"First of all, the simple fact of being able to play in the World Cup. It's wonderful to be here, to be able to play on a big stage with my friends," he said, appearing relaxed during a training session with the Norwegian national team. He reflected on the team's unexpected victory over Brazil in the Round of 16, a match in which he scored twice.

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I'm enjoying it very much.

"I didn't expect it at all. I celebrated even before the match against Brazil; I didn't expect it. My mother also didn't expect to be in the quarterfinals," he admitted. "Playing and beating Brazil was crazy for us Norwegians, and then playing against England in the quarterfinals is incredible. If you see what's happening in Norway, it's not the usual Norway."

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First of all, the simple fact of being able to play in the World Cup. It's wonderful to be here, to be able to play on a big stage with my friends.

Haaland placed the pressure squarely on England, whom he considers one of the tournament favorites. "I think there are clear favorites out there, England is one of them," he stated. "I think all of you should put as much pressure as possible on the English."

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Playing and beating Brazil was crazy for us Norwegians, and then playing against England in the quarterfinals is incredible. If you see what's happening in Norway, it's not the usual Norway.