World Cup Respect
Harry Kane and Erling Haaland's Postgame Handshake Shows Mutual Respect After England's World Cup Win
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England are through to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals after beating Norway 2-1 in extra time in Miami. Macon.com reported that the match's most talked-about moment came not from a goal, but from a handshake — England captain Harry Kane and Norway captain Erling Haaland sharing a moment of mutual respect after the final whistle.
The exchange between two of the world's best strikers went viral almost instantly. Fans across social media praised the gesture, calling it a reminder that sportsmanship still matters even at the highest stakes of international football.
England Edge Norway in Tense Extra-Time Thriller
The match in Miami went the full 120 minutes before England secured their spot in the last four. The final score was 2-1. Bellingham Herald and Sun Herald both confirmed the result, with England holding on despite a strong Norway push late in regulation. It was a hard-fought win that tested England's depth and composure.
Norway, led by Haaland, gave England real problems throughout. The match could have gone either way. England's ability to find an extra-time winner showed their resilience at this World Cup.
Kane and Haaland Handshake Steals the Spotlight
When the final whistle blew, Kane walked straight to Haaland. The two captains shook hands and exchanged words. Island Packet noted the moment was the most talked-about exchange of the entire match. Both men are club rivals and have long been compared as the top strikers in world football.
Ledger-Enquirer reported that fans widely applauded the gesture. Many called it a show of class from both players. Kane plays for Bayern Munich. Haaland plays for Manchester City. Their club rivalry makes the moment feel even more significant on the international stage.
Fans Praise Sportsmanship in a High-Stakes Tournament
The reaction online was fast and overwhelmingly positive. Myrtle Beach Online and The State both noted that fans praised the mutual admiration shown between the two captains. In a tournament often defined by fierce national pride, a moment like this stood out.
Many fans said the handshake was a reminder of what sport is about at its best. Even in defeat, Haaland carried himself with dignity. Even in victory, Kane showed respect. Social media posts praising the exchange racked up hundreds of thousands of likes within hours of the final whistle.
England's Road to the Semifinal Continues
England now move on to the 2026 World Cup semifinals. Idaho Statesman confirmed the team advanced from their quarterfinal tie in Miami. England will face a tough opponent in the next round as the tournament moves toward its final stages in North America.
For Norway, the tournament is over. Haaland finishes the competition without a winner's medal, but his performance and conduct drew praise from fans and pundits alike. For England, the focus now shifts quickly. A World Cup final berth is just one game away.
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