Norway manager Ståle Solbakken praised striker Erling Haaland following the team's successful opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The performance marks a critical start for a Norwegian squad that has not appeared in the tournament since 1998 [3]. With Haaland delivering a pivotal four-goal contribution, the victory establishes Norway as a competitive force in the group stage.
Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 [1] during the match held on June 16, 2026 [1], in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Solbakken credited the victory to the collective effort but singled out the impact of his star forward. He said Haaland is an "easy-going superstar" [4].
The manager had previously indicated high expectations for the striker before the tournament began. Solbakken said, "We expect a huge impact from Erling Haaland at this World Cup" [5]. The result in the U.S. suggests those expectations were met early in the competition.
Following the dominant win over Iraq, Solbakken noted that the squad would be given time to recover. He said the players can now enjoy a well-deserved rest [6]. This rotation strategy aims to maintain peak performance as the team progresses through the tournament.
Haaland's ability to deliver under pressure has been a focal point for the national team. His contributions in the opening game provided the momentum necessary for a team returning to the global stage after nearly three decades.
“"He is an easy-going superstar."”
Norway's dominant start and the integration of Haaland's elite form signal a shift in the team's international standing. By securing a convincing win in their first match since 1998, Norway has transitioned from a team of individual stars to a functional collective capable of competing at the highest level of FIFA competition.
