The decision has surprised many supporters ahead of one of the most anticipated fixtures of the group stage, especially with both national teams already through to the knockout rounds. Erling Haaland has been one of the standout performers at the 2026 World Cup, but the Manchester City striker is set to begin Norway’s final Group I match against France on the bench. The decision has surprised many supporters ahead of one of the most anticipated fixtures of the group stage, especially with both national teams already through to the knockout rounds.
According to L’Equipe, Norway head coach Stale Solbakken chose to rest Haaland because qualification for the knockout rounds had already been secured, and the difference between finishing first or second in Group I was not considered significant enough to risk his leading striker ahead of the Round of 32.
Martin Odegaard will also begin on the bench, with Solbakken reportedly considering sweeping changes throughout the starting lineup. In fact, the Norwegian coach has made as many as 10 outfield changes from the side that defeated Senegal.
The reasoning is largely tactical. While the winner of Group I would face a third-place qualifier, the runner-up would meet the Ivory Coast in the next round. Current projections suggested neither route offered a significantly easier path through the knockout bracket, reducing the incentive to risk key players. Instead, Solbakken appears focused on ensuring his biggest stars remain fresh and healthy for the matches that matter most.