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Norway's national team coach, Ståle Solbakken, lauded his star player Erling Haaland after the striker netted his second brace of the World Cup in Monday's 3-2 victory over Senegal in Group I.
"I mean, today he missed an open goal and could have even scored four. No, I mean, he's the best striker – he doesn't play for France or Argentina, he scores for Norway. He's already scored four goals, twice on the biggest stage," the coach stated.
The Norwegians sit second in the group with 6 points, trailing leaders France only on goal difference ahead of their final group match on Friday. The 'Les Bleus' also boast a major attacking star in Kylian Mbappé, who has likewise scored four goals in the tournament so far.
"It's easier to win the Golden Boot when you play for France or Argentina, but we will try to give Erling more games and more support in the upcoming matches. So he's thrilled, and I'm very happy for him that he can score on the biggest stage," Solbakken added.
With his players visibly fatigued towards the end of the match, Solbakken hinted at squad rotation for the clash against France.
"We haven't started planning for the France game yet, so now we'll return to our camp and recover. We need that for the very tough match ahead; other players might also get a chance," he said.
Both France and Norway have already secured their spots in the Round of 16, with their upcoming encounter set to determine the group winner.
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