Haaland, Norway are rowing home, but this World Cup cemented them as superstars

MIAMI — They arrived at the World Cup, aimed to win, and almost succeeded. However, despite Erling Haaland’s efforts, Norway could not claim the title. A crucial match highlighted by England midfielder Jude Bellingham and an incident involving an aerial camera marked their exit.

Throughout the tournament, Cape Verde captivated fans by reaching the round of 32, narrowly losing to Argentina in extra time. Yet, Norway, accompanied by Haaland, left a lasting impression in the United States, where they competed in all six matches.

Norway’s run ended with a 2-1 defeat to England in the quarterfinals in Miami. Controversy arose when England’s first goal was potentially influenced by the ball hitting an aerial camera, setting a dramatic backdrop for the match.

As the dust settles on the FIFA World Cup 2026, two iconic images will remain: Haaland celebrating after scoring and the team performing their signature “Viking Row” in Times Square before heading to MetLife Stadium.

Haaland stood out as the team’s superstar. Coach Stale Solbakken praised him, stating, “He’s the greatest goal scorer in the world. I wouldn’t swap him for anybody.” While players like Messi, Mbappé, Bellingham, and Kane carry an aura of detachment, Haaland remains approachable and relatable.

With seven goals at the tournament, Haaland matched Poland’s Grzegorz Lato for the highest goal tally by a player debuting in the World Cup. His internet presence soared, highlighted by rapidly growing subscribers on his YouTube channel, which exceeded 3 million during the tournament.

Haaland’s engaging personality and humor, complemented by his performance on the field, have elevated him to new heights of fame. His behind-the-scenes documentary has also gained significant viewership, showing his multifaceted appeal beyond football.

Norway’s presence extended beyond the pitch; their creative Nautical-themed departure photo and the engaging “Viking Row” have resonated with fans, even inspiring police in Dallas to join in as they arrived for a game.

Solbakken expressed pride in his team, stating, “the whole nation is rowing together,” indicating a united celebration throughout Norway.

Though Norway’s journey has come to an end, their achievements have established them on the world stage, and Haaland’s emergence as a global star is undeniable. Together, they have made a significant mark on this World Cup.