Erling Haaland scored a brace as Norway defeated England 2-1 in a World Cup qualifier at the Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo on Saturday, ending England's 12-match unbeaten run. The match, dubbed the 'Cold War' by local media, saw a high-street invasion of Norwegian fans celebrating a historic victory.
Haaland doubles up to stun England
The Manchester City striker opened the scoring with a powerful header from a Martin Ødegaard cross in the 23rd minute, then doubled the lead with a clinical left-footed finish after a defensive error by Harry Maguire in the 58th minute. England pulled one back through a Harry Kane penalty in the 75th minute, but Norway held on for a famous win.
According to Norway coach Ståle Solbakken, the victory was a result of a disciplined defensive performance and exploiting England's weaknesses. “We knew they would dominate possession, but we were clinical on the counter. Haaland's finishing was world-class,” he said.
England's unbeaten run ends
England had not lost since a 1-0 defeat to Brazil in November 2023, a run of 12 matches. Manager Gareth Southgate admitted his side were second best. “We didn't start well and gave away two sloppy goals. Norway deserved the win,” he told BBC Sport.
The defeat leaves England second in Group I, two points behind Norway, with both teams having played six matches. The top two teams qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup.
High-street invasion as fans celebrate
After the final whistle, thousands of Norwegian fans poured onto the streets of Oslo, blocking traffic and celebrating into the night. Police reported no major incidents, with the atmosphere described as “carnival-like”.
The match was the first meeting between the two sides since a 1-1 draw in 2022. Norway's win was their first against England since a 2-1 victory in 1982.
