Erling Haaland is eager to make his mark as Norway prepare for their first World Cup match in 28 years against Iraq on Tuesday, with coach Stale Solbakken confident his star striker can continue his remarkable scoring form.
Haaland was Europe’s most prolific scorer during qualifying, netting 16 goals in eight matches — twice as many as any other player on the continent.
Solbakken believes the Manchester City forward is refreshed and ready after being given a period of rest at the end of the club season and during Norway’s World Cup preparations.
“Hopefully he will have a very big impact,” Solbakken said.
“If we continue to create chances for Erling, he has a tendency to score.”
The Norway coach also praised captain Martin Odegaard, who recorded the most assists in European qualifying despite missing a significant period through injury.
Solbakken believes Odegaard’s absence helped other players step up and develop greater confidence within the squad.
“The players around him have grown because of that. They have become more confident themselves,” he said.
However, Norway have been dealt a minor setback with striker Jorgen Strand Larsen battling a fever ahead of the Group H encounter.
Norway will begin their campaign against Iraq at the New England Patriots’ stadium near Boston, facing a side coached by Graham Arnold, who guided Australia to the Round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup.
Solbakken expects a difficult challenge from an organised Iraqi team and warned his players to be alert to their threat from wide areas and crosses.
After a long wait to return to football’s biggest stage, Norway will be hoping Haaland can inspire a winning start to their World Cup journey.
