If you give Erling chances, he has a tendency to score, says Norway coach Stale Solbakken ahead of WC clash against Iraq
New York, June 16
Norway coach Stale Solbakken praised striker Erling Haaland, saying he expects him to have a major impact in the ongoing FIFA World Cup and believes he will continue to score if provided chances.
He also added that Haaland's presence boosts the confidence and development of the players around him. Haaland is raring to go against Iraq on Tuesday in his country's first World Cup match in 28 years
"Hopefully, he will have a very big impact. Hopefully, we can continue to give him chances, and if you give Erling chances, he has a tendency to score. The players around him have grown because of that. So they have got more confidence in themselves," he told reporters as per Reuters.
Norway kick off their World Cup campaign at the New England Patriots' stadium in the suburbs of Boston against an Iraq side that qualified for the tournament.
Norway enjoyed a dominant qualification campaign, winning all eight of their matches and scoring 37 goals in the process.
Iraq were the final team to secure a place at the World Cup, booking their spot in March after defeating Bolivia in the intercontinental playoff.
It has been a strong start to the tournament for Asian Football Confederation sides, and Iraq will aim to continue that momentum, although they face a difficult challenge in this match.
Norway, meanwhile, are a well-balanced team with quality across the pitch, but their success has been heavily driven by the influence of Erling Haaland.
— ANI
Reader Comments
"If you give Erling chances, he has a tendency to score" — that's the kind of confidence a coach needs to have in his star player. Reminds me of how we feel about our own talismanic players in Indian cricket. But against Iraq's passionate defense, it won't be a walk in the park.
Norway's qualification campaign was dominant — winning all 8 matches and scoring 37 goals! That's some serious firepower. But World Cup is a different beast. Iraq's defensive resilience could surprise many. Would love to see an upset here, for Asian football's sake. 🌏
Haaland is undoubtedly a generational talent, but relying too much on one player can be risky. Norway have other quality players too — need to step up if Haaland is marked out. Solbakken's confidence is good, but a bit more tactical depth would be reassuring.
First World Cup match for Norway in 28 years — that's emotional. Haaland carrying the hopes of a nation. Reminds me of our own journey in football, dreaming of making it to the World Cup one day. Best of luck to both teams! 🙌
Iraq are the underdogs but never count them out! They fought through playoffs to get here. Asian teams have been impressive so far — Iran, Japan, Korea all showing grit. Haaland might be the headline, but Iraq's spirit could write a different story.
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