​West Bromwich Albion’s Norway striker Aune Heggebo says it is inspirational to see Erling Haaland and his former Baggies teammate Torbjorn Heggem making history for their country at the World Cup. Manchester City forward Haaland’s seven goals and Bologna defender Heggem’s steadiness have helped Norway reach the quarter-finals for the first time, setting up a tantalising clash with England in Miami on Saturday.
Heggebo, who has earned two international caps, described watching his homeland’s exploits as unbelievable. “I get a bit of FOMO from the people living in Norway because it’s complete madness on the streets,” he told BBC Radio WM. After Haaland struck both goals in Norway’s dramatic 2-1 victory over five-time champions Brazil in the last 16, Heggebo admitted he couldn’t sleep following the match. “It was a piece of Norwegian history—Norway beating Brazil there. It’s inspirational and so unreal to watch the Norwegian team perform.”
“The entire Norwegian population is following the national team now. It’s as if people who don’t even follow football have started to fall in love with it. It’s definitely bringing the whole nation together, and I don’t think people saw it coming. To follow as a fan is so fun; it’s putting Norway on the map and boosting the country’s spirit.”
Heggebo pondered how England could stop Haaland, noting that Haaland himself said the pressure would be on England. Born in Leeds but raised in Norway, Haaland’s worlds have collided in this World Cup. Heggebo’s former teammate, Heggem, remains a key figure for Norway, and Heggebo reflected on their shared time at The Hawthorns, which was cut short by Heggem’s £10 million transfer to Italy a month into the previous season. Yet watching his old Albion colleague’s rise has been a source of joy.
“He’s been outstanding, and his journey from Norway into Sweden and then England and Italy and now the World Cup is an amazing story,” Heggebo said. “His professionalism and football knowledge are so good, and his desire to improve is clear. The ceiling for him is high.”
As England’s defence plots to contain Haaland on Saturday, Heggebo will also be watching closely, recognizing the intense challenge that awaits his compatriot and friend. Heggem’s influence at Bologna and in Norwegian football represents more than just a club career; it embodies a national narrative of perseverance and high achievement that has captivated a nation watching a World Cup run unlike any other.