Erling Haaland, Manchester City’s star striker, faced sharp criticism following his lackluster performance in Norway’s 0-0 draw against Kazakhstan in the UEFA Nations League. Known for his goal-scoring prowess at the club level, Haaland has been on fire for Pep Guardiola’s side, bagging two hat-tricks in the first three Premier League games of the season. Yet, that lethal form didn’t follow him to the international stage, leaving fans and pundits disappointed.
The Norwegian forward, 24, joined his national team for their Nations League opener on Friday, where Norway dominated possession with 70%, but were unable to convert that control into goals. Haaland, often Norway’s offensive lynchpin, found himself at the center of criticism as the team could only muster two shots on target throughout the match.
Former Norway coach Egil Olsen didn’t hold back in his post-match analysis, telling TV2: “We have two world-class players in the team. Today Erling Braut Haaland was unfortunately far below par. It’s one of the worst performances I’ve seen from him.”
Olsen, known for his no-nonsense approach, was equally unimpressed with the team’s other star player, Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard. “Martin Odegaard flashes at times, but I’ve seen him play better as well. Taking just one point here is unacceptable. None of the other teams in this group will drop points to Kazakhstan,” Olsen said, alluding to Norway’s standing 59 places above Kazakhstan in the FIFA rankings.
Despite Haaland’s best efforts, including four shots at goal, none found the back of the net. Odegaard, the team captain, faced similar struggles in a game where Norway clearly dominated, but failed to break down the opposition’s defense. Norway will look to redeem themselves in their upcoming match against Austria on Monday, with another fixture against Slovenia looming as they battle for progress in League B.
The goalless stalemate is another blow to Haaland’s international career. Despite his incredible tally of 31 goals in 33 caps for Norway, he is yet to lead his nation to a major tournament. The City forward, who seemed rejuvenated by a summer break judging by his club form, remains focused on one of his biggest goals: taking Norway to the 2026 World Cup.
Haaland, however, is no stranger to criticism on the international front. Last season, he faced backlash, with Manchester United icon Roy Keane going so far as to label him a “League Two player” after a subdued performance. Haaland, unfazed, responded to critics by emphasizing his role beyond just scoring. “In the end, you can play football without touching the ball,” Haaland said. “You can do it with movement, mental awareness. If I can stretch the center-backs with my runs, that’s part of my job.”
Meanwhile, back at Manchester City, Haaland will rejoin a squad hungry for European glory. After falling short in last year’s Champions League final, City are aiming to reclaim the crown. Pep Guardiola, along with key players like Kevin De Bruyne, are expected to push hard as City navigate a newly formatted Champions League, featuring 36 teams in a single-league phase. With Inter Milan, Juventus, and PSG among the teams they’ll face, the stakes are higher than ever.
Fans can follow every twist and turn of City’s European campaign with the Manchester Evening News’ Champions League guide. With worldwide delivery available, it promises to be the perfect companion for those wanting to witness every step of Guardiola’s pursuit of continental glory.
