He has something that can't be trained. Norway's coach describes Haaland's nose for goals

The Scandinavian squad has returned to the global elite for the first time since France 1998, spearheaded by their Manchester City sharpshooter. "So far, so good. We are very pleased with what we have achieved. We've advanced to the knockout stage. That was the goal, and now we want to push further from there," the coach revealed.

Haaland netted four goals in two group stage matches, resting against the "Gallic Roosters." "He's a great leader, leading by example on the pitch. He possesses something that perhaps can't be trained to achieve – a nose for goals, that feeling that the ball will land at your feet – and this is his strongest asset, alongside his explosiveness and physical prowess.

All of this, combined with being a good teammate on and off the pitch, makes him one of the best players in the world," Solbakken praised.

Norway's playing style has evolved since their last World Cup appearance 28 years ago. "There are players here who want to keep possession. So, compared to the 90s, it was perhaps more about physical strength back then and a much greater reliance on set pieces," recalled the manager, who himself played in that aforementioned championship.

Part of this stylistic shift was influenced by the "Guardiola school" of ball possession, favored by former Manchester City and Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola. "I believe Norwegian football will be even better in the future – a great combination of what we used to do and what we do now," he elaborated.

His team will face the formidable Ivory Coast. "They are a very, very physically strong team, very powerful, and that's the first thing we need to contend with." If they can manage that, then they can maintain their identity in both defense and attack and will have a chance.

"However, I think it will be a very balanced and tight match that could go either way," Solbakken added, noting that luck will also play a role.