Norway's star striker Erling Haaland continues to express a conservative outlook on his team's chances of winning the World Cup, even as they advance to the semifinals. Ahead of a quarterfinal match against England in Miami, Haaland stated that Norway's odds remain "really low."
Haaland suggested that the pressure should be placed on the English team, one of the tournament's perceived favorites. This sentiment mirrors his stance earlier in the competition, where he expressed similar low expectations before Norway's round of 16 match against Brazil. Despite his comments, Norway achieved a 2-1 victory over the five-time world champions, with Haaland scoring both goals.
Norway's journey to the semifinals has included wins over Ivory Coast and Brazil, with Haaland contributing goals in both matches. The team's advancement is considered a significant achievement for the nation.
"Playing against Brazil was kind of crazy for us Norwegians. And to win against Brazil, and then play England in the quarterfinals in the World Cup, in the USA is quite special," Haaland told reporters. "And think if you watch the scenes back in Norway, this is not normal for Norway to be, so it's super special."
The winner of the quarterfinal match between Norway and England will advance to the semifinals to face either Argentina or Switzerland.