Aune Heggebo hails Norway’s historic World Cup run

West Bromwich Albion striker Aune Heggebo describes it as “inspirational” to watch Erling Haaland and his former teammate Torbjorn Heggem make history for Norway at the World Cup.

Manchester City forward Haaland has scored seven goals, while Bologna defender Heggem has provided defensive strength to help guide Norway to the quarter-finals for the first time. The team now faces a high-stakes match against England in Miami this Saturday.

Heggebo, who has earned two international caps, says witnessing the national team’s success has been incredible.

“I get a bit of FOMO [fear of missing out] from the people living in Norway because it’s complete madness going on in the streets,” he told BBC Radio WM.

After Haaland netted both goals in Norway’s superb 2-1 win over five-time winners Brazil in the last 16, Heggebo admitted he “couldn’t sleep” after watching the game.

“It was a piece of Norwegian history—Norway beating Brazil there. It’s inspirational and so unreal to watch the Norwegian team perform,” he said. “You’ve got the whole of the Norwegian population following the national team now. Even people that don’t 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 is so great for the country’s spirit.”

‘It would be a dream to play in that team’

Heggebo made his international debut in a World Cup qualifier against Moldova last September, where he replaced Haaland—who scored five goals in Norway’s 11-1 victory—as a late substitute. He called stepping onto the pitch for Haaland a special moment.

“It’s definitely a big inspiration. He shows anything is possible,” Heggebo said. “The standards he’s been delivering for so many years are crazy. He’s probably the most extreme level of celebrity or sporting person we’ve ever had in Norway. The whole team as a unit is performing at such a high level—you have the superstars, but I think that’s the most impressive thing: how they are doing it as a collective.”

Heggebo’s time with Heggem at The Hawthorns concluded after the centre-back’s £10m move to Italy early last season. Despite their time apart, Heggebo has closely followed his former colleague’s progress.

“He’s been outstanding. His journey from Norway into Sweden and then England and Italy and playing in the World Cup now—it’s an amazing story,” Heggebo said. “His professionalism, his football knowledge, and his desire to improve are all so good. The ceiling for him is high.”

As England’s defence plots to contain Haaland on Saturday, Heggem will be working to neutralise England’s captain, Harry Kane. Heggebo, who dreams of playing for the national side again, is confident in Heggem’s ability.

“I think he’ll have him in control,” Heggebo said. “What a game it will be. I can’t wait.”