Erling Haaland’s eventful World Cup run in the United States has come to an end.
Norway’s top striker won the hearts of several American fans throughout his team’s resounding run to the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals. Following Norway’s tournament-ending loss to England on Saturday, Haaland said farewell to the place he’ll forever associate with his first-ever World Cup experience.
“Goodbye 🇺🇸,” Haaland wrote along with a selfie of him wearing shades and a backwards cap. “It’s been emotional!”
🚨📲 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Erling Haaland on IG: "Goodbye 🇺🇸… It's been emotional!" pic.twitter.com/Y0LufSfXRY
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) July 13, 2026
Haaland became a fan favorite for his immense goal-scoring prowess. He tallied 7 goals across 5 games played for Norway, trailing only Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe entering the World Cup semifinals.
The 25-year-old striker arguably got even more love for his antics off the pitch. Haaland thoroughly enjoyed his time in every state he visited, and wasn’t afraid to take silly photos to commemorate his time stateside.
“Dallas is amazing, unbelievable. It’s so nice. I’m coming back here, I’ll tell you what. The people are just so nice here, so positive. I don’t know what it is. They’re just like enjoying life. It’s amazing, so friendly."
— Traces of Texas (@TracesofTexas) July 12, 2026
—- Norwegian soccer star Erling Haaland, upon visiting… pic.twitter.com/JyFlnyejpm
Haaland memes flooded social media as well, with his goofy personality seemingly being in stark contrast with his ferocious attacks during each World Cup match he played.
Erling isn’t the first member of the Haaland family to play in a World Cup on U.S. soil. His father, Alfie Haaland, also played for Norway when America hosted the tournament in 1994.
