Manchester City’s prolific striker, Erling Haaland, is surprisingly not in Norway’s starting lineup for their highly anticipated match against France. The article investigates the reasons behind the superstar’s omission.
The match was poised to be a thrilling encounter, with a potential World Cup surprise in Norway facing a strong contender in France, and a fascinating duel anticipated between Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland. However, the Manchester City forward is absent from National Coach Stale Solbakken’s initial formation. SPOX provides the explanation.
Why is Erling Haaland Not Starting for Norway Against France in the World Cup?
Haaland is not starting for Norway against France as he is being given a tactical rest. The Manchester City striker is one of several players that National Coach Solbakken has placed on the bench for the match against the French team. There is no indication of an injury.
World Cup 2026: Not Just Haaland — Norway Makes Significant Rotations Against France
Remarkably, Solbakken has made ten changes to the starting eleven that played in the second group stage match against Senegal. Selvik replaced Nyland in goal, Ostigard came in for Heggem in defense, Thorstvedt featured in midfield, and Strand Larsen led the attack. Only Aursnes retained his spot in the starting lineup.
World Cup 2026: Norway and France Lineups
NORWAY (3-5-2): Selvik; Ostigard, Bjorkan, Falchner; Berg, Aursnes, Thorstvedt, Aasgaard, Schjelderup; Bobb, Larsen. Coach: Solbakken
FRANCE (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Lacroix, Theo Hernández; Tchouaméni, Koné; Dembélé, Olise, Doué; Mbappé. Coach: Stéphan*
*Didier Deschamps is absent for personal reasons.