Solbakken, who helped Norway advance to the World Cup Round of 16, praised Haaland for bringing composure to the country.

Norway, the "Vikings," defeated Ivory Coast 2-1 in a key match of the 2026 World Cup Round of 32, thanks to goals from Antonio Noussa and Erling Haaland. Solbakken stated that Haaland made a huge contribution to the team, helping them become more composed and level-headed.

In the 39th minute, Ødegaard passed the ball across the field, and Antonio Nusa received it before curling a shot into the net, giving Norway a 1-0 lead. In the 74th minute of the second half, Diallo received a pass from Nicola Pepe, broke through the defense, and fired a low shot into the net, helping Ivory Coast equalize the score at 1-1.

In the 86th minute, Patrick Berg dealt with Ivory Coast goalkeeper Yahya Fofana's cross, and Haaland received the ball and seized the opportunity to slot it into the net, giving Norway a 2-1 lead. Ultimately, Norway defeated Ivory Coast 2-1, successfully advancing to the round of 16.

Norway's head coach Solbakken said, "Haaland is the greatest striker in the world, without a doubt. He doesn't participate in many of the overall attacks, but he had a great chance in the first half and then scored the game-winning goal. He's like someone from another planet."

“When a team has a player like him, he brings calmness and composure to the whole team. I think his role has been seriously underestimated. He didn’t concede a single goal in this game, which was a huge help to the team. I know he is incredibly proud to represent the national team, but he also understands that this is a team that relies on teamwork, and he also needs the support and help of his teammates.”

Solbåken also emphasized, "For a small country like Norway to score five goals in the first three games of the World Cup is truly incredible. As for whether I would trade him for other players? I would never trade him for anyone. But this is the first time in Norway's history that they have won the knockout stage, which in itself is a historic achievement."

In addition, Norway will face Ancelotti's Brazil in the round of 16 of the World Cup, while the "Samba Army" defeated Japan 2-1 in the round of 32.

Solbakken said, "We'll talk about Brazil later. Let's just enjoy this victory first. I don't want to start analyzing the next game right now."

Image source: Internet