"We want Haaland" - Norwegian captain's message to fans, colleague speaks of provocation

Despite a 4-1 defeat to France, the Norwegian national football team's coach, Ståle Solbakken, defended his decision to rest star striker Erling Haaland and midfielder Martin Ødegaard. The move came during a World Cup match where Norway's progression was already secured, but their final group standing was still in play.

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We want Haaland

Chants of "We want Haaland" echoed from the stands, highlighting the fans' desire to see their talisman in action. However, Solbakken explained that the decision was strategic, aimed at preserving the players for the knockout stages. He acknowledged the fans' wishes but stressed that both Haaland and Ødegaard are team players whose presence is crucial for Norway's deeper tournament ambitions.

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It was a clear decision. Only because of the fans could the question arise whether Erling Haaland or Martin Ødegaard should play, but they are team players.

Solbakken's comments, made after the match, aimed to manage expectations and reinforce the team's serious intent. "We are not a naive team that came here to have fun," he stated, underscoring the squad's objective to remain in the competition for as long as possible. This suggests a calculated approach to managing player fitness and team dynamics throughout the tournament.

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The fans of course want to see them, but hopefully we will give them a few more pleasant evenings in the coming weeks.

The coach also subtly addressed comments from the Uruguayan coach, who had suggested Uruguay left no mark on the tournament. Solbakken's remarks implied that Norway, even with rested stars, was focused on its own path and objectives, not engaging in external provocations.

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We are not a naive team that came here to have fun. We want to stay as long as possible.