Erling Haaland says that the project of leading the Norwegian army that will face England on Saturday in the quarter final of the 2026 World Cup will be another important part of his career.
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The much-anticipated clash at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium (KO 22.00 UK) will see Haaland likely to feature alongside City team-mates Marc Guéhi and Nico O’Reilly and a host of other English regulars.
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The City icon, of course, has already enjoyed many blue riband moments during his illustrious career so far.
He has also been a standout in guiding Norway to the last eight, scoring seven goals so far, including a brace in their 2-1 Round of 16 win over Brazil last Sunday.
But the 25-year-old admitted that the opportunity to play against the country where he was born and where he does his daily work – with the World Cup semi-finals at stake – would be a moment to really enjoy.
“It’s a very special game,” Haaland said ahead of Saturday night’s contest in Miami.
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“I play in England and I was born in England.
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“You are also playing against [your club] teammates and all.
“So, it’s weird – it’s a funny game but it’s going to be great.
“I did not expect this at all.
“I said it many times before – even before the Brazil game I did not expect it – and I did not expect that we will reach the quarter-finals against Norway in the World Cup.
“It’s surprising even to me.
“I enjoy many things. First of all, being able to play in the World Cup is an honor and a big goal for me in my career.
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“To be able to be here and play on the big stage with my Norwegian friends against the best teams in the world is something special.
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“Playing against Brazil was like crazy for us Norwegians and winning against Brazil and going to play against England in the quarter-finals of the World Cup in the USA is something special.
“I think if you watch the scenes back in Norway [you can see] it is not common in Norway.”
Haaland has been a relaxed, calm figure throughout Norway’s tour so far and has emerged as one of the truly historic players of the World Cup.
Despite the huge attention wherever he goes, Haaland says he has tried to stay positive and try to have fun and enjoy the fun of the World Cup where possible.
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And the City star also couldn’t resist putting in a few mental games in the build-up, saying he felt England were the clear favorites to progress!
“England should be confident about progress – their England,” added Haaland.
“There are clear favorites out there and England is one of them so I think you all have to put the pressure on the English boys!
“It’s important to joke and I think you all know me now and I like to joke a little and have fun.
“That is the key to my daily life.
“Yes, train well, focus well and prepare well but you also need to have fun and enjoy the moment.”
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We kick off in Hong Kong against Italian champions Inter on Saturday 1 August, kick-off at 12:30 (UK).
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