Erling Haaland scored both goals as Norway stunned five-time champions Brazil 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, securing the country's first-ever quarter-final appearance. After the match, the Manchester City striker playfully reminded former England captain Wayne Rooney of his promise to row down the River Mersey if Norway eliminated Brazil.
Haaland's Vlog and Message to Rooney
Sharing his latest vlog on YouTube, Haaland smiled and said: "Wayne Rooney, I expect you to go out on a rowing trip." Rooney had earlier joked about the rowing challenge in a social media post.
The 2-1 victory in New Jersey extended Norway's remarkable unbeaten record against Brazil and marked the biggest win in the nation's football history.
Haaland's Admiration for Brazil
Before reliving the victory, Haaland spoke warmly about Brazilian football. "Brazil is a football nation, which is almost maybe the first football nation you kind of get to know because of all the legendary players that played there. Just the jersey, the country, the passion," he said.
He added: "It's just like it's a bit unrealistic to play against them. No matter where you go, you kind of see a Brazil shirt, and yeah, that's why I have so much respect for Brazil as a country, but especially as a football nation."
Tribute to Ronaldo Nazario
Haaland reserved special praise for Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario. "I mean, Ronaldo is a special player as well, we all know. El Fenomeno. I think Zlatan [Ibrahimovic] said it like he is the inspiration to everyone who starts with football because of the way he was dribbling, the way he was just enjoying football and everything," he said.
Family Connection: Alfie Haaland's 1998 Victory
The occasion carried added significance for the Haaland family. Erling's father, Alfie Haaland, was a member of the Norway side that famously defeated Brazil during the 1998 FIFA World Cup group stage. Before this year's Round of 16 clash, Alfie met Brazilian greats including Ronaldo Nazario and Cafu, sharing light-hearted moments captured in the vlog.
Haaland on the Unreal Victory
Reflecting on the achievement, Haaland admitted: "No words. This is just unreal. To win against Brazil and qualify for the quarterfinals was not on my bucket list. I think we played unbelievably. But to have 250 million or however many it is in Brazil, to expect you to win a football game is not easy. So the pressure was on them, and you could kind of see that today."
He added: "I remember I said right before the game started, 'Guys, no matter what happens, just smile and enjoy it because just live in the moment because we did everything we can and now we're in the quarterfinals with our shoulders down, just enjoying playing football.' It still doesn't feel real."
Philosophy of Living in the Moment
Earlier in the vlog, Haaland shared his philosophy: "In football, you never know. You never know what's going to happen in your life. You never know what's going to happen the day after, tomorrow. That's why you have to live in the moment. Don't think of what's next, just enjoy being present in the moment."
Upcoming Quarter-Final Against England
Norway will face England in the quarter-final on July 12. Haaland has scored seven goals in the tournament, keeping him in the race for the Golden Boot as Norway chases another historic milestone.
