Norway coach backs Haaland to make big World Cup impact

Norway's coach Stale Solbakken expressed confidence in prolific striker Erling Haaland ahead of their World Cup match against Iraq, the country's first in 28 years. Solbakken stated that Haaland is eager to play and that the team's strategy will involve feeding him scoring opportunities.

"Hopefully he will have a very big impact," Solbakken told reporters. "Hopefully we can continue to give him chances and if you give Erling chances, he has a tendency to score." Haaland has a remarkable scoring record, netting 16 goals in just eight qualifying games, double the tally of any other European player.

Solbakken also praised captain Martin Odegaard for his significant goal assists during qualifiers, noting that his injury absence allowed other players to grow in confidence. However, striker Jorgen Strand Larsen is reportedly ill with a fever.

Norway will face an organized Iraqi side in their opening match at the New England Patriots' stadium. Solbakken acknowledged Iraq's tactical discipline and their threat from crosses, also referencing the experience of their coach, Graham Arnold, who led Australia to the round of 16 in the previous World Cup.

“

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.