Rest or Regret? Norway Bench Haaland in World Cup Loss to France
Norway made 10 changes to their starting lineup, leaving star striker Erling Haaland on the bench, in a 4-1 defeat to France, sparking debate over whether resting players for the knockout stage was wise.
The anticipated World Cup Golden Boot showdown between Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland never materialized as Norway’s manager Stale Solbakken opted to rest Haaland and make a staggering 10 changes to the side that had already qualified for the knockout stages. France cruised to a 4-1 victory at Boston Stadium, with Ousmane Dembele scoring a first-half hat-trick.
Solbakken called the decision a “no-brainer,” citing advice from medical staff and the players themselves. After the Senegal game, five or six players were heavily fatigued, including the entire defensive line. He admitted the only consideration against the changes was the fans’ desire to see Haaland and Martin Odegaard play.
Former England striker Ian Wright commented that if Haaland needs rest, he will get it. However, Norway’s penalty miss by substitute Jorgen Strand Larsen could have made it 3-2. Haaland himself had earlier downplayed the importance of the match, saying France would likely win the tournament.
France topped Group I, while Norway now faces a 1,100-mile trip to Arlington, Texas, to play Ivory Coast. Former Scotland winger Pat Nevin noted the logistical challenges but also the benefit of a well-rested team. Roy Keane, speaking on ITV, supported Solbakken’s logic, highlighting the different expectations for the two sides: France is expected to win the World Cup, while Norway’s priority was group advancement.
Solbakken defended the changes due to the short turnaround from Tuesday’s game. France assistant coach Guy Stephan said he was not surprised and that the decision’s correctness would be seen in four days.
