12.07.2026 22:40
Alexander Sörloth has become the center of controversy in his country after Norway lost 2-1 to England in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals. The star player, who faced criticism for not passing to Erling Haaland in the first half of the match, received over 100,000 abusive messages on his social media account within 15 hours.
Norway, eliminated from the FIFA 2026 World Cup quarter-finals after losing 2-1 to England, has directed its anger at former Trabzonspor striker Alexander Sörloth. The experienced forward, criticized for selfishly not passing to his teammate Erling Haaland during a key moment in the first half, has become the target of harsh criticism in his country.
EARLY ADVANTAGE NOT MAINTAINED
Although England started the thrilling quarter-final match with pressure, Norway managed to find balance as the game progressed. In the 35th minute, Norway took a 1-0 lead with a stylish goal and then created another crucial opportunity to secure a semi-final spot.
SELFISHNESS WITH HEAVY CONSEQUENCES
Sörloth, with a chance to make it 2-0 and effectively end the game, chose to shoot at goal instead of passing to the world-renowned star Erling Haaland, who was completely unoccupied in a prime position. After this selfish decision, the opposing defense regrouped, and the star player's shot did not find the target. Following this missed clear goal-scoring opportunity, Haaland showed great disappointment on the pitch, while England came back and won the match 2-1 to secure their place in the semi-finals.
DECLARED A TRAITOR IN THE COUNTRY
Sörloth, who had a successful season with Atletico Madrid in his club career but remained quiet throughout the World Cup without contributing any goals, was effectively made a scapegoat after the elimination. Norwegian football fans and sports media heavily criticized the experienced player for his poor performance and selfishness at a critical moment, pointing to him as the main culprit for the defeat.
OVER 100,000 ABUSIVE MESSAGES
The star player, who became the focal point of reactions across the country, received over 100,000 abusive messages on his social media posts within 15 hours.
WIFE'S STATEMENT AFTER REACTIONS
Alexander Sörloth's wife, Lena, made a statement following the intense backlash. Reacting to the criticism, Lena said, 'The World Cup and football bring a lot of happiness, but also a lot of hatred. I don't actually want to pay attention to it, but I need this after such comments. I hope everyone thinks a bit more before making such comments.'