According to a report by footballTransfers on Tuesday July 14, 2026. Norway’s defeat to England in the World Cup quarter-final has sparked a disturbing wave of abuse, with one of Erling Haaland’s teammates, Alexander Sorloth, targeted for severe social media harassment.
Following the 2-1 loss after extra time, Sorloth faced an onslaught of hateful comments on his personal channels and those of his fiancée, Lena Selnes.
The abuse intensified after a missed opportunity in the match, where Sorloth had a clear chance to give Norway a 2-0 lead.
He led a promising counterattack alongside Haaland but was unable to find a pass, and goalkeeper Jordan Pickford saved his shot.
Sorloth later explained his thought process during the moment: “I took a touch, looked up, and saw John Stones blocking the pass. Then I took another touch, but it didn’t work out. I was waiting for him to make a tackle instead of trying to make mine.”
Despite his explanation, the fallout has been severe. On Instagram, Sorloth received countless derogatory comments, including some telling him to “never play football again” and labeling him as “the most hated man in Norway, maybe even the world.”
His fiancée Lena Selnes also faced similar vitriol, prompting her to speak out on Instagram stories.
“The World Cup and football bring joy, but they also bring a lot of hate,” Selnes wrote. “I don’t want to give these comments attention, but I feel I have to after reading what’s been said.” She shared messages like: “Tell your husband to leave Norway and jump off a cliff,” “I’m going to k*** him,” and “Please k*** yourself, you idiot.”
She urged followers to think before posting: “Everyone should consider their words carefully, regardless of the circumstances.”
Support for Sorloth has poured in from Norway. National team coach Stale Solbakken condemned the abuse: “That’s the reality we live in, and emotions run high. It’s tragic, and there’s nothing more to add.” He advised players to avoid social media during such times, emphasizing that it’s not a place to seek energy or validation.
Kristoffer Vatshaug, head of the Norwegian Athletes’ Union (NISO), called for police action.
In an email to Dagbladet, he stated, “No athlete should have to accept threats or harassment for doing their job. Such behavior is unacceptable and must be taken seriously.
These incidents are part of a troubling trend, and the consequences can be devastating for individuals, both personally and professionally. We need to stand against this dark side of sports.”
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