Erling Haaland Gained 22 Million Instagram Followers During Norway's Epic World Cup Run

Norway star Erling Haaland fell short of the semifinal but won social media fame during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Haaland gained more than 22 million followers on Instagram between the start of the World Cup and Norway's quarterfinal loss to England on Saturday in Miami.

The 25-year-old is now one of the most followed world football players on Instagram. The lead is still held by Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo and his 675 million followers.

Haaland, who committed a foul on a Norway goal that was ultimately waved off after video review, was held off the scoresheet Saturday in his team's 2-1 loss.

At the time of Norway's elimination, he still ranked second only to Lionel Messi for the tournament scoring lead with seven goals in six games.

Haaland helped Norway reach the nation's first World Cup quarterfinal by heading in a go-ahead goal against Brazil in the Round of 16.

Saturday's loss to England marked Haaland's first international match in which he was held off the scoreboard since October 2024, per Opta Joe.