Norway's Haaland downplays title hopes after World Cup 2026 knockout qualification

Norway secured a place in the World Cup 2026 knockout stage by defeating Senegal 3‑2 in the Group I match, with striker Erling Haaland scoring twice. Following the victory, Haaland said that dreaming of a World Cup title is unrealistic, noting that simply reaching the round of 32 is already a major achievement for the Norwegian team.

He added that he is not overly concerned about the upcoming group clash with France, stating, “Probablemente nos ganen y terminen siendo campeones,” and “Honestly, I’m a bit indifferent now. Probably they’ll beat us and end up champions.” Haaland emphasized the importance of the historic qualification, which marks only the second time Norway has advanced beyond the group stage since 1998.

The win leaves Norway level on points with France at the top of the group, setting up a decisive encounter that will determine the group leader before the knockout rounds begin.