Haaland’s Norway seeks Bangladesh’s support in World Cup

Norway has made a special appeal to Bangladeshi football fans 2 days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bangladesh is not participating in the World Cup. Therefore, the country's Dhaka embassy has requested them to support Norway.

In a message on social media, the Norwegian Embassy in Bangladesh wrote, 'Bangladesh should support Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026!'

They also explained the reason why Bangladesh will support Norway. According to Norway, the two countries have many similarities beyond football.

The message said, 'The relationship between our two football-loving countries is not limited to football. We have more in common than many people think.'

Norway reminded that they were one of the first countries to recognize Bangladesh after independence. In addition, the two countries also work in the international arena on peace, mediation and climate issues.

They said, 'Our relationship is built on respect, history and friendship. Bangladesh is not playing in the World Cup this time. So, Norway, returning to the biggest stage of football after 28 years, may be the right team for Bangladeshis to support.’

Some geographical and cultural similarities between the two countries have also been highlighted. According to Norway, as coastal countries dependent on rivers and seas, Bangladesh and Norway have many similarities. The people of both countries also have a love for fish.

The message also said, ‘We give importance to fairness in all areas, whether it is international cooperation, development activities or the football field.’ Norway also commented that although the two countries are small in their respective positions, their dreams are big.

In their words, ‘Bangladesh is geographically relatively small and Norway is small in terms of population. However, our two countries have very big dreams on the world stage.’

Finally, Erling Haaland, one of the world’s football stars, was also mentioned. Norway said, "For those who are still not sure, one of the biggest stars in world football, Erling Braut Haaland, could be an additional attraction."

The Norwegian embassy in Dhaka ended their status with this message, "So what do you say, Bangladesh? It's time to stand by the underdogs. Time to dream big together."