World Cup 2026: Erling Haaland reacts with humility, pride after sinking Brazil

EAST RUTHERFORD: Norway forward Erling Haaland reflected on his match-winning performance with humility and pride after firing his country into the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals with a stunning brace in historic 2-1 victory over Brazil here at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.

Haaland struck twice in the closing stages to send Norway into the last eight for the first time in the nation's history, eliminating the five-time world champions in one of the tournament's biggest upsets.

Speaking after the match, the 25-year-old said he had learned to trust his instincts whenever chances came his way.

"That’s just how it usually goes. If I get a chance or two, it usually ends up as a goal. I don’t know how I do it, but that’s how I do it, so it’s all about staying focused. I tell myself the chance will come, and then I usually know right away if I don’t score," Haaland said.

Haaland also described his finishing ability as a blessing and admitted he was beginning to appreciate just how extraordinary some of his goals had become.

"I'm starting to realise now, I think, that it’s a gift from God that it goes in perfectly, perfectly right up against the post and stuff. So it’s crazy," Haaland added.

Beyond the result, Haaland spoke passionately about what representing Norway means to him and expressed hope that the team's success would inspire a new generation.

"We just kept pushing forward, but I hope that all the young people watching this interview—I hope that when you get a little older, you’ll see playing for Norway as the proudest thing you’ll ever do in your entire life—it’s absolutely insane," Haaland concluded.

It is pertinent to mention that with seven goals at the tournament, Haaland now shares the lead in the Golden Boot race with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe as Norway prepare for a quarter-final showdown with England.