FIFA 26: Haaland double sends Norway into World Cup knockout stage as Solbakken eyes Golden Boot

Norway coach Ståle Solbakken heaped praise on star striker Erling Haaland after his two-goal display inspired a 3-2 victory over Senegal on Monday, securing Norway’s place in the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in nearly three decades. Haaland struck twice in the Group I encounter, taking his tournament tally to four goals and strengthening his challenge for the Golden Boot award as the competition’s leading scorer.

The Norwegian forward opened his account shortly after halftime when captain Martin Ødegaard set him up for the breakthrough goal in the 48th minute. Haaland later produced a composed finish to restore Norway’s two-goal cushion and put his side 3-1 ahead.

Despite his brace, the prolific striker could have added more to his tally, missing several opportunities before Senegal reduced the deficit late in the match to set up a tense finale.

“Well, today he missed an open goal and probably could have scored four,” Solbakken said with a smile after the match.

“He is the best striker around. The difference is that he plays for Norway, not for France or Argentina. He has four goals now and has scored two braces on the biggest stage in football.”

The victory lifted Norway to six points from two matches, leaving them second in Group I behind France on goal difference. Both sides have already booked their places in the last 32 ahead of Friday’s group decider.

Solbakken acknowledged that players representing traditional football powerhouses may have an advantage in the race for the Golden Boot, but said Norway would do everything possible to help Haaland continue his scoring streak.

“It’s easier to win the Golden Boot when you play for teams like France or Argentina, but we’ll try to give Erling more games and more support in the matches ahead,” he said. “He’s in outstanding form and I’m delighted to see him performing like this on the world stage.”

The result guarantees Norway’s progression from the group phase in their first World Cup appearance since 1998, prompting celebrations among players and coaching staff, who joined supporters in the team’s trademark “row” chant after the final whistle.

With a demanding clash against France looming, Solbakken hinted that changes could be made to his starting lineup after an exhausting encounter against Senegal.

“We haven’t started planning for France yet,” he said. “First we need to recover because this was a very tough game. There will probably be some different players involved in the next match.”

Haaland, meanwhile, struck a relaxed tone when discussing the upcoming showdown with France.

“We’re already through,” he joked. “They’ll probably beat us and then go on to win the whole tournament.”