Sorloth's father reveals frustration at half-time substitution as Norway prepare to face England

Alexander Sorloth is harbouring frustration within the Norway camp ahead of their World Cup quarter-final against England on July 22, after being hooked at half-time during the round-of-16 victory over Brazil — a decision his father has publicly addressed.

Norway beat Brazil 2-1 in a historic upset, with Manchester City striker Erling Haaland scoring a match-winning brace to send the record five-time champions out. But the win came at a cost for Sorloth, who was replaced by Fulham playmaker Oscar Bobb at the interval, leaving the Atletico Madrid forward visibly aggrieved with manager Stale Solbakken’s call.

Sorloth’s father and former Norway international Goran Sorloth told Norwegian outlet Dagbladet: “He gets irritated about being taken off, he should be every day all year round. Regardless of whether it’s the World Cup, the European Championship or a regular international match.”

Goran was quick to play down any lasting rift, however, insisting the relationship between his son and Solbakken remains intact. “I don’t think there was a heated discussion with Stale Solbakken. They know each other so well that there was talk of exchanging things and things. They are still the best friends in the world. Together they believe that they can go far.”

The underlying tension stems from Haaland’s dominance of Norway’s attacking structure. With the 25-year-old fixed as the central striker, Sorloth has been pushed out wide — a role that sits uneasily with a forward who has scored 26 goals for his country and is accustomed to leading the line.

Haaland, meanwhile, has been one of the tournament’s standout performers and is in contention for the Golden Boot, sitting just one goal behind current leader Lionel Messi. The Argentina captain inspired defending champions Argentina to a 3-2 comeback win over Egypt, contributing a goal and an assist.

England, who beat Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca Stadium on Monday, now stand between Norway and a World Cup semi-final. Thomas Tuchel’s side will need to contain Haaland if they are to keep their own tournament alive, with the quarter-final taking place in Miami, Florida.

Norway’s preparations have not been entirely smooth. A bout of illness in the squad threatens to disrupt their build-up, though Sorloth’s father struck an optimistic note about the group’s collective ambition despite the internal friction.