England’s World Cup quarter-final win over Norway has continued to generate controversy after Alf-Inge Haaland claimed his country were “robbed” in the 2-1 defeat.
The former Norway international, and father of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, reacted strongly after England advanced to the semi-finals in Miami. According to ESPN, Haaland Sr. accused Thomas Tuchel’s side of being helped by the officials, while also saying he now hoped England would go on to win the tournament.
Norway left frustrated by key decisions
The biggest flashpoint came when Torbjorn Heggem had a Norway goal ruled out. The strike would have put Norway 2-1 ahead, but it was disallowed after Erling Haaland was judged to have pushed Elliot Anderson during a corner.
There was also debate around England’s opener, with Norway manager Ståle Solbakken suggesting the ball may have touched an overhead wire above the pitch before dropping into a dangerous area. ESPN reported that FIFA’s ball sensor showed no contact with the wire.
Haaland Sr makes his feelings clear
Alf-Inge Haaland did not hide his frustration after the match. Responding on social media, he suggested England had been “saved by the referee” and said Norway had been “robbed”. He also posted a pointed reaction to Jude Bellingham’s decisive goal, praising both Bellingham and the referee in a sarcastic tone.
His comments added another layer of drama to a match already packed with tension, VAR debate and emotional fallout.
Erling Haaland takes a calmer view
Erling Haaland, however, struck a more measured tone after Norway’s exit. While his father focused on the officiating, the striker did not directly blame the referee for the result.
Instead, Haaland appeared to acknowledge the reality of elite football, suggesting that bigger teams often get certain moments in their favour. For Norway, that will not soften the disappointment. They were close to a historic World Cup semi-final, but England found a way through.
England move on, Norway look back
For England, the result keeps alive their dream of winning the World Cup. Tuchel’s side are now set to face Argentina in the semi-finals, with belief growing that this could be their defining tournament.
For Norway, the exit will feel especially painful. They pushed England deep into a tight quarter-final and had moments where the game appeared to be shifting in their favour. But major tournaments are often decided by fine margins — and this one has left Norway with a sense of injustice.
Haaland Sr.’s comments will divide opinion. Some will see them as emotional frustration after a painful defeat. Others will argue Norway had legitimate reasons to feel aggrieved.
But one thing is clear: England survived a major test. Whether fortune, resilience or big-game quality carried them through, they are still standing. Norway are heading home with regrets, while England are two matches away from football’s biggest prize.
