Erling Haaland didn’t hide his frustration after Norway’s heartbreaking 2-1 extra-time defeat to England, insisting key refereeing decisions cost his side a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
The Manchester City striker was left furious after VAR ruled out what would have been Norway’s second goal.
The Controversial Decision
With the score finely balanced, Torbjørn Lysaker Heggem thought he had restored Norway’s lead after finding the back of the net from close range.
However, VAR intervened and ruled that Haaland had fouled Elliot Anderson in the build-up, leading referee Clément Turpin to disallow the goal.
England survived before Jude Bellingham struck the winner in extra time to send the Three Lions into the last four.
Haaland’s Verdict
Speaking after the match, Haaland admitted the defeat was difficult to take.
“It feels a bit empty, to be honest.”
The Norwegian captain believed his team deserved more from the game and questioned the referee’s decision.
“I felt we deserved more. I don’t think it’s a free kick.”
He added:
“It’s been disallowed because I push Elliot Anderson to the ground, like I get pushed in every single duel. It’s a bit bitter.”
Calls for Consistency
Haaland also suggested officials apply different standards to him compared to other strikers.
The 26-year-old argued he regularly receives similar treatment from defenders without winning free-kicks.
“Small moments decide things in the World Cup.”
Reflecting on the controversial moment, he continued:
“When we get the 50/50 decisions against us, it becomes difficult.”
He then questioned the consistency of refereeing decisions.
“If that’s a free kick, then I should get a free kick in every duel because I get pushed and pulled all the time. I think it’s weak.”
Norway Left Heartbroken
Norway had taken the lead through Andreas Schjelderup before Bellingham equalised just before half-time.
The Scandinavian side thought they had regained the advantage when Heggem scored, only for VAR to intervene.
England eventually capitalised, with Bellingham scoring again in extra time to book Thomas Tuchel’s side a place in the World Cup semi-finals.
The Bottom Line
Haaland believes Norway were on the wrong end of crucial refereeing calls that changed the match. While England march into the semi-finals, the Manchester City striker insists the controversial VAR decision will leave Norway wondering what might have been.
