England advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in the quarter-finals, with Erling Haaland failing to make an impact. Norwegian media were scathing in their assessment of the striker, handing him a low rating.
Match Summary
Thomas Tuchel's Three Lions made history on Saturday evening by reaching the final four. Norway proved a tough opponent in humid Miami, taking the lead through Andreas Schjelderup in the 36th minute. Jude Bellingham equalised in first-half stoppage time, and then scored again in the third minute of extra time to secure a 2-1 win.
Haaland's Performance
Most pre-match attention focused on Manchester City's Haaland, who had scored seven goals in the tournament. However, the 25-year-old struggled to create chances and was substituted in extra time. Norwegian outlet Dagbladet gave him a 4/10 rating, stating: 'He had a few opportunities but failed to capitalise on them. It turned out to be a disappointing quarter-final. His body language was off.'
Other Low Ratings
Haaland was among the lowest-rated players, with only Alexander Sorloth and Orjan Nyland scoring lower at 3/10. Dagbladet criticised Sorloth, saying: 'He tried his luck on a couple of occasions. He was substituted. It was painful to see such a good striker unable to make it work.' Nyland was also blasted: 'The goalkeeper started well, but then the blunders came. First, a shocking clearance, then the rebound that put England 2–1 up. Terrible, coming after a good World Cup.'
Fan Ratings
Online outlet Nettavisen rated Haaland 6/10 for his energy, but Norwegian fans gave him a ruthless 4/10. A report noted: 'He was not heavily involved before the break, but immense in the pressing game. He surged forward with such pace and power just before half-time that former team-mate John Stones could do nothing but spill the ball out of play. He had a golden opportunity from a cross before the break, but his finish was saved by Jordan Pickford. He saw a goal disallowed in incredibly soft fashion after Elliot Anderson went to ground following a challenge in the box. He completely ran himself into the ground during extra time and had to leave the pitch before the final 15 minutes.'
