Haaland Calls Norway’s Win ‘Unbelievable History’
Solbakken: Haaland Greatest Goalscorer in the World
Erling Haaland described Norway’s progression to the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026 as ‘unbelievable history’ after scoring a dramatic late winner against Ivory Coast.
The Manchester City striker, who had been largely isolated throughout the match, prodded home in the 86th minute to seal a 2-1 victory, Norway’s first-ever win in a World Cup knockout match.
‘I can’t swear, but it is unbelievable. This is history,’ Haaland told broadcasters after the game.
It was Haaland’s fifth goal in just three World Cup appearances, continuing a remarkable run of form that has seen him score in each of his last 13 competitive internationals, netting 25 goals in that span.
Norway captain Martin Ødegaard praised his teammate’s impact, saying: ‘It’s amazing to have him in the team. We’re lucky to have him and it’s just about giving him as many opportunities as possible.’
Head coach Ståle Solbakken hailed Haaland as ‘the greatest goalscorer in the world,’ noting his ability to both finish and retain possession.
‘To score five goals in the World Cup in three games, for a little country like Norway… I wouldn’t swap him for anyone,’ Solbakken said.
Norway now face Brazil in New York/New Jersey on July 5, a clash that will test whether Haaland can continue his extraordinary scoring run against one of football’s giants.
