After the Colombian Jaminton Campaz, another player in this 2026 World Cup is in turn the victim of a wave of hatred. A few hours after Norway’s elimination against England (2-1 after extra time) in the quarter-final, Alexander Sørloth received numerous death threats on social networks following an action which changed the match.
In the 44th minute, with the Scandinavians leading 1-0, the 30-year-old striker found himself in a two-on-one situation with Erling Haaland against John Stones. Rather than serve his captain, ideally placed to make the break, the Atlético de Madrid player chose to continue his action before losing the ball. A few minutes later, Jude Bellingham equalized for England, who finally won after extra time (2-1).
If many supporters were content to criticize his choice, others took an unacceptable step. Alexander Sørloth received extremely violent messages, with some internet users writing in particular: “Tell him to jump off a cliff”,
“I want to kill him” or “Die together in a helicopter”.
Sørloth’s companion comes out of silence
Faced with the extent of the harassment, his partner, Lena Selnes, decided to speak out. “The World Cup and football bring a lot of joy, but also a lot of hatred. I preferred not to pay attention to it, but when faced with comments like these, I have no choice”she denounced.
Norway coach Ståle Solbakken also supported his striker and denounced the toxicity of social networks. “That’s why I advise boys to stay away from social media. Especially in times like this”declared the Norwegian technician, refusing to make Sørloth responsible for the elimination of the Vikings.
