Erling Haaland has played down Norway's chances of progressing further at the FIFA World Cup 2026 despite guiding his side into the Round of 16. The Manchester City striker admitted that Norway face a monumental challenge against five-time world champions Brazil, describing their chances of causing an upset as "very slim."
Norway booked their place in the knockout stage after edging past Ivory Coast in the Round of 32, with Haaland once again proving to be the difference-maker.
Also Read: Haaland reaches Historic milestone with 60 goals as Norway advances to World Cup Round of 16
Erling Haaland realistic about Norway's Brazil challenge
Haaland scored the match-winning goal in the 86th minute as Norway defeated Ivory Coast 2-1 to keep their World Cup campaign alive. Despite the dramatic victory, the star striker remained grounded while discussing the upcoming clash against Brazil.
Speaking after the game, Haaland stressed that Norway must stay realistic about the task ahead.
"We're going to the round of 16, there will be excellent teams. It won't be easy, we have to be realistic. I don't know if we'll make it. We've prepared a lot and we're still very prepared."
When asked about Norway's chances of eliminating Brazil, Erling Haaland gave a brutally honest response.
"Uh...very slim."
Haaland continues impressive World Cup campaign
While Norway prepare for one of their toughest tests of the tournament, Haaland has continued his remarkable scoring form on the biggest stage. His late winner against Ivory Coast took his tally to five goals in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, leaving him just one strike behind Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.
The Norwegian captain has also reached another significant international milestone during the tournament. Erling Haaland now has 60 goals in just 53 appearances for Norway, making him the fastest active player to reach the landmark. For comparison, Mbappe needed 100 international matches to score 60 goals, while Messi reached the figure after 122 appearances.
Also Read: Is France better than Spain? Lamine Yamal's brutal take on debate
Norway will now hope their star forward can once again inspire them when they face tournament favourites Brazil in the Round of 16.