Erling Haaland is tearing it up at the World Cup, but off the pitch, it's his girlfriend who's stealing the show. Isabel Haugseng Johansen, the long-time partner of the Norwegian star, set social media ablaze with a stunning skirt photo ahead of Norway's knockout match against Ivory Coast.
Johansen, who has seen her Instagram following skyrocket to over 374,000 during the tournament, has become a fan favorite. Her pre-game outfit choice had fans buzzing, with many calling it 'gorgeous' and praising her style. It's a trend that's become common at this World Cup, as partners of star players often grab attention—much like Neymar's girlfriend Bruna Biancardi did with her swimsuit snapshot.
Haaland, meanwhile, has been living up to the hype on the field. He kicked off Norway's campaign with two goals in a 4-1 win over Iran, then bagged another brace in a 3-2 victory against Senegal. Though he sat out the final group-stage match, he remains near the top of the Golden Boot standings. The pressure of leading a nation with limited World Cup history hasn't fazed him.
“It was a lot of pressure. It is a lot of pressure now still, but yeah, I could feel it ever since I started with the national team, the pressure [to get to a World Cup]. The more time I’ve been there, the more pressure, of course, on my shoulders. But again, even better that we managed to do it, and it’s an amazing feeling,” Haaland told ESPN. “To qualify for the World Cup is a really special thing. I’m looking forward to it. It’s going to be amazing. Finally.”
That pressure didn't show on Tuesday, when Haaland scored a go-ahead goal in the 86th minute against Ivory Coast to keep Norway's dreams alive. It's a moment that has fans celebrating, but online, the conversation often shifts to Johansen's growing popularity. Her social media rise mirrors that of other sports figures' partners, like Paige Spiranac, who also commands attention with her style.
As Norway advances, all eyes will be on Haaland's performance—but don't be surprised if Johansen's fashion choices continue to make headlines. With her Instagram following climbing daily, she's becoming a star in her own right, proving that at the World Cup, the spotlight isn't just on the players.
