Alf-Inge Haaland, father of Norwegian star Erling Haaland, was caught on the big screen making an obscene gesture towards supporters during the closing stages of Norway's 2-1 defeat to England in the World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday in Miami.
Match Summary
England advanced to the semi-finals thanks to a brace from Jude Bellingham. Norway opened the scoring through Andreas Schjelderup, whose shot beat Jordan Pickford and hit the far post before going in. Bellingham equalized with a brilliant individual run and finish past Orjan Nyland. Three minutes into extra time, he scored again after Nyland spilled Elliot Anderson's effort into his path.
Controversial VAR Decisions
Norway had a goal disallowed early in the second half. A corner was knocked down to Alexander Sorloth, whose shot was saved by Pickford, but the ball fell to Torbjorn Heggem, who scored. However, Erling Haaland was adjudged to have fouled Anderson with both arms while making space, and the goal was overturned after a VAR review.
Late in the first period of extra time, England substitute Djed Spence appeared to win a penalty after initiating contact with a defender. Referee Clement Turpin initially awarded the spot-kick, but VAR determined Spence had instigated the contact, and the decision was reversed.
Alf-Inge Haaland's Gesture
When the camera focused on Alf-Inge Haaland in the stands after the penalty reversal, he signalled that Spence had simulated before making an obscene gesture towards the supporters. The 53-year-old displayed two fingers with the backs of his hands facing outward, considered as offensive as showing the middle finger, and was seen mouthing for fans to "f--- off."
After the match, he posted on social media: "Well done Bellingham and referee," likely referring to the disallowed Norway goal.
Impact on Norway
Erling Haaland, who had scored seven goals in four matches before the quarter-final, struggled against England's defense and was surprisingly substituted during extra time. Norway's elimination ends their World Cup campaign.
England will face either Argentina or Switzerland in the semi-final on Wednesday, July 15, in Atlanta.
