Norway coach Stale Solbakken praised Erling Haaland after his brace against Senegal secured a 3-2 victory and booked Norway’s place in the World Cup Round of 32.
Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has lavished praise on Erling Haaland after the striker’s latest World Cup heroics helped fire the Scandinavian nation into the knockout rounds.
Haaland scored twice in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Senegal, taking his tournament tally to four goals and strengthening his case for the Golden Boot.
The Manchester City forward once again proved decisive on the biggest stage as Norway secured qualification for the Round of 32. His first goal came shortly after halftime when captain Martin Odegaard picked him out with a perfectly weighted pass, allowing Haaland to finish clinically.
Norway go through to the knockouts! 👏#FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 23, 2026
The 25-year-old then added a second goal later in the contest with a clever finish that extended Norway’s lead to 3-1.
While Senegal fought back to make the closing stages tense, Haaland’s contribution ultimately proved enough to secure all three points.
Despite his impressive display, Solbakken joked that the prolific striker could have finished the game with an even bigger haul. Haaland missed several opportunities throughout the match, including one chance that appeared easier to score than miss.
“Today he missed an open goal and could even have scored four,” Solbakken said with a smile after the match. The Norway coach, however, was quick to emphasise just how remarkable Haaland’s achievements have been at the tournament.
Solbakken argued that Haaland deserves even greater recognition because he is carrying a nation that traditionally does not possess the same depth of talent as football powerhouses such as France or Argentina.
Norway now sit second in Group I on six points, level with France but behind the tournament favourites on goal difference. The two nations will meet in a highly anticipated group finale that will determine who advances as group winners.
Looking ahead, Solbakken revealed that Norway are fully committed to helping Haaland challenge for the Golden Boot.
While acknowledging that players representing stronger teams may have an advantage, the coach believes his star striker is capable of outscoring anyone.
“We’ll try to give Erling more games and more help in the next matches. He’s on fire, and I’m very happy that he is showing what he can do on the biggest stage,” Solbakken said.
