‘If it had been a free kick…’: Erling Haaland furious at VAR decision as World Cup exit Football News
Erling Haaland’s dream fifa world cup That debut ended on Saturday as Norway crashed out in the quarter-finals, but the prolific forward believes the tournament has transformed football’s status in his country. Norway capped off an exciting campaign by defeating England 2-1 in extra time, ending a winning streak that had wowed fans around the world. Haaland was substituted with around 15 minutes remaining and watched from the bench as Jude Bellingham’s brace sent the Three Lions into the semi-finals. Although Norway failed to reach the semi-finals, Haaland finished the game with seven goals and established himself as the competition’s top scorer. Looking back on the journey, the Manchester City striker described the experience as unforgettable. “It’s been the coolest six weeks of my life,” the 25-year-old was quoted as saying by Xinhua. “It’s been crazy. These are lifelong memories. It’s the most fun thing I’ve ever been a part of.” The quarterfinals proved particularly demanding, with players battling sweltering heat and humidity in Miami. Haaland admitted the conditions had taken a toll but refused to use them as an excuse for the defeat. “It’s tough. Playing in this humidity is very special,” Haaland said. “I don’t want to make any excuses. The quarter-finals were decided by small details and we had some situations that went against us.” One of the focal points was Norway’s goal being disallowed after a VAR review determined that Haaland had fouled England midfielder Elliot Anderson. The striker disagreed with the decision. Haaland said: “I felt like I was being pulled along and I thought it was a weak decision.” “If it’s a free kick, then I should take it in almost every duel in every game.” Despite the disappointment, Haaland believes the Norwegian’s performance left a lasting impact. The team’s run to the quarter-finals, combined with the popularity of the “Vikings Walk” celebrations among fans, made Norway one of the tournament’s most compelling stories. The chant, performed by fans and players alike, caused a stir on social media and in the host city throughout the tournament. “The way we put Norway on the map is one of the things that moves me the most,” Haaland said. “I hope this gives young people in Norway motivation to believe that this is possible. It is possible to perform on the biggest stage in the world wearing a Norwegian T-shirt.” The game also featured an emotional reunion with Haaland’s close friend and former Borussia Dortmund team-mate Bellingham. The England midfielder’s two goals ended Norway’s World Cup dreams. Yet Haaland had nothing but praise for his friend. “Jude is a good friend…he’s a great guy,” Haaland said. “I’m not surprised by his performance. England are lucky, [Real] Madrid are lucky because everyone wants a Jude in their team. “ Haaland, who was born in Leeds, admitted he will continue to follow England’s progress at the World Cup ahead of international duty for Norway. “I think I got an England jersey when I was younger before I got a Norway jersey, so of course I want England to do well,” he said. Looking back on the Norwegian team’s journey, Haaland believes that the team has achieved some major achievements and proved that it can compete with the traditional strong teams in football. “I’ve said it many times, we are building something in Norway. I think it’s already built,” he said. “We have shown that it is possible to beat Brazil, one of the biggest footballing nations in the world. We gave England a good fight.” The game is over and Haaland is looking forward to a break after six weeks of mental exhaustion. “I’m completely over it now, I can safely say that,” Haaland concluded, looking forward to a quiet holiday after the emotional rollercoaster. “There were so many impressions, so many feelings. I’m happy with my life. I’m in a good place.”
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