Media personality Toke Makinwa has commended Norway for its performance at the World Cup following a 2-1 defeat to England on Saturday night, with special praise for striker Erling Haaland.

In an Instagram post on Sunday, Makinwa described football as a unifying force and thanked Norway for showing that anything is possible on the global stage.

She lauded Haaland for leading his country to the tournament and for his conduct throughout the competition.

According to her, the Manchester City forward demonstrated unity, gratitude and joy, while also connecting with fans through his light-hearted personality and active social media presence.

Makinwa noted that Haaland remains one of the best strikers in the world but has maintained a down-to-earth, fun-loving attitude.

She added that his Snapchat content and post-match engagement further endeared him to global audiences.

The mother of one said her support for Norway was influenced by both her admiration for the team’s underdog story and her personal connection.

She described Norwegians as kind, humble and inspiring people, based on her repeated visits to the country.

While acknowledging England’s 2-1 win, Makinwa stated that Norway’s run had captured worldwide attention after a 28-year absence from the World Cup.

She also highlighted the potential boost to Norway’s tourism, arguing that the team’s performance would attract more international visitors.

She concluded by celebrating the team’s effort and sportsmanship, describing them as worthy representatives of their country.

Makinwa wrote, “Football is truly a religion….Thank you, Norway, for showing the world yet again that anything is possible….Man like Haaland, you carried your country to the World Cup, you showed up and showed out while displaying unity, gratitude and FUN. The memes are legendary.

“The whole world has fallen in love with this Viking. I think what we love most about Haaland is that he doesn’t take himself too seriously; he’s doing what he loves and having so much fun at it. Every chance he gets, he lets you know how grateful he is to even be at the World Cup with his team. After each game, you can count on him to be on social media. His Snapchat is hilarious; if you don’t follow him, you are missing out. He is one of the best strikers in the world right now, but Haaland is still a goofball.

“I have visited Norway so much, and each time I am there, I am inspired by how down-to-earth, incredibly kind and loving the people of Norway are. England won on the field last night, but we will not forget that the Vikings came through. It was a match fit for heroes and pure sportsmanship.

“I supported Norway not only because my Niece is a Viking but because they were the underdogs. After 28 years, the world definitely knows of them now, and I shudder to imagine what these lads have done to their country. Tourism is high for them now, cos I know a lot of Americans and people” from around the world will love to visit. Sons of Odin, your Ancestors must be proud. Let’s row home with pride, boys…”