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Norway coach explains sitting Erling Haaland for World Cup group stage finale
New York Post • • general
Key Points:
- Norway's coach Stale Solbakken decided to rest star striker Erling Haaland during the World Cup group stage finale against France, citing player fatigue after previous matches.
- Despite fans chanting for Haaland to play, Solbakken emphasized the importance of team welfare over fan demands and praised Haaland and Martin Ødegaard for their team-first attitude.
- Norway lost the match 4-1 to France, who secured the top spot in Group I, while Norway finished second and advanced to the knockout stage.
- Haaland, currently tied for second in the Golden Boot race with four goals in two matches, is expected to return for Norway's upcoming knockout match against Ivory Coast.
- Norway's fanbase gained attention for their "Viking Row" celebration, which the team, including Haaland, performed after their win over Senegal.
