Norway coach Stale Solbakken is backing Erling Haaland to make a major impact as the Scandinavian nation prepares for its first World Cup match in 28 years against Iraq on Tuesday.
Haaland heads into the tournament in impressive form after scoring 16 goals in eight qualifying matches, twice as many as any other player in Europe during the qualification campaign.
Solbakken said the Manchester City striker has benefited from a period of rest at the end of the club season and is eager to get started on football’s biggest stage.
“Hopefully he will have a very big impact,” Solbakken said. “If you give Erling chances, he has a tendency to score.”
The Norway coach also praised captain Martin Odegaard, who recorded the most assists in the European qualifiers despite missing a significant period through injury.
According to Solbakken, Odegaard’s absence unexpectedly helped other players develop greater confidence and responsibility within the team.
There was, however, some concern over striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, who is battling a fever ahead of the Group H opener.
Norway face an Iraq side that overcame a demanding qualification campaign and travel disruptions linked to regional tensions in the Middle East to reach the tournament.
Solbakken expects a difficult contest against Graham Arnold’s well-drilled team, highlighting Iraq’s defensive organisation and threat from crosses.
“Obviously, the coach is very, very used to this kind of game,” Solbakken said of Arnold, who guided Australia to the Round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup.
With Haaland and Odegaard leading the way, Norway will be hoping to mark their long-awaited World Cup return with a winning start.
