We wouldn't have won anyway — Haaland backs Solbakken

Erling Haaland defended Stale Solbakken's decision to rest several key players in Norway's heavy defeat to France, saying the result would not have changed and the rotation leaves the squad stronger for the knockout stages despite widespread criticism. Solbakken made ten changes to his starting XI for the crucial group match, with Frederik Aursnes the only player to keep his place.

France took advantage of the weakened line-up and ran out 4-1 winners, while Haaland, Martin Odegaard and Antonio Nusa were all left on the bench as the coach prioritised freshness for the knockout rounds. Solbakken said, "I would do it again immediately," adding that his aim was to give Norway the best chance of progressing and that his only regret was disappointing travelling fans who wanted to see the stars.

Haaland echoed his manager, saying he did not care about the selection and that France were the better team, believing even Norway’s strongest eleven would have struggled to beat them.

Norway

erling haaland, stale solbakken, norway, france, player rotation, starting xi, knockout stages, frederik aursnes, martin odegaard, antonio nusa