Haaland backs Solbakken after Norway’s B‑team gamble

Norway’s senior coach Stale Solbakken defended his decision to field a largely rotated squad against France on Friday evening, a move backed by striker Erling Haaland despite the 1‑4 defeat. The match, part of the group stage, saw Norway finish behind France and set up a round‑of‑32 clash with Ivory Coast.

Stale Solbakken made ten changes to the lineup compared with Norway’s second group match against Senegal. The alterations meant that both Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard were rested as the team prepared for the knockout phase.

The decision to sit the two stars was part of a broader rotation strategy aimed at preserving them for later rounds. Solbakken later said he would repeat the choice without hesitation.

After the 1‑4 loss to France, Solbakken faced a wave of criticism for the selection. He explained that his only regret concerned the travelling fans who expected to see Haaland, Ødegaard and other stars.

Erling Haaland, the Manchester City striker, defended the coach’s approach. He reiterated that he had previously said he did not care about the selection and that, even with Norway’s strongest eleven, he doubted they could have beaten France.

France proved the superior side on the evening, scoring four goals to Norway’s single. The result left Norway behind France in the group.

The Norwegian side now turns its attention to the round of 32, where they will meet Ivory Coast. The upcoming knockout match marks the next step in their campaign.