Norway striker Alexander Sorloth has become the latest player to face online abuse at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, receiving messages urging him to take his own life after his country’s quarter-final defeat to England, according to Reuters.
The Atletico Madrid forward came under heavy criticism after Norway’s dramatic 2-1 extra-time loss to England on Saturday.
The backlash followed a decisive moment when Sorloth chose to shoot instead of passing to an unmarked Erling Haaland during a two-on-one counter-attack with Norway leading 1-0. His effort was blocked before England equalised and eventually secured victory to reach the semi-finals.
The abuse escalated on social media after Sorloth’s partner, Lena Selnes, posted screenshots on Instagram showing a stream of abusive messages, including comments telling the 30-year-old striker to take his own life.
Norway coach Stale Solbakken condemned the attacks, describing them as a sad reflection of modern football culture.
