So Norway is finally going to the FIFA World Cup after 28 years . Just think about that,28 years is very long time in football. So much has changed since then .
And obviously,a big reason for this is Erling Haaland . The team's coach,Stale Solbakken,called him a ‘very easy-going superstar’ who thinks about team first. It’s always good to hear when big star is humble like that.
The man was just unstoppable in qualifiers,scoring 16 goals . That's way more than anyone else. He basically carried the team on his back.
And you can feel relief in coach Solbakken’s words . He mentioned all disappointments over the years. For Norwegian public,this is a huge moment,they have been waiting since 1998 to see their team play in World Cup.
The excitement is clearly visible . Apparently 50,000 fans gathered in freezing cold just to welcome the team. That's real passion ah.
Few things to keep in mind:
- Erling Haaland’s 16 goals in qualifying was more than any other European player .
- They are in a very challenging group with France,Senegal,and Iraq.
- coach Stale Solbakken says team spirit is the most important thing for their success.
But it's not just the Haaland show only . The coach also praised Alexander Sorloth for his versatility and playing in different roles for the team. Every successful team needs players like him who are selfless .
Now the real challenge starts . Their first match is against Iraq on June 17,then Senegal on June 23 and finally big match against France on June 27 . That is a very tough draw.
And honestly,this is where things get really difficult.
Qualifying is one thing but performing on the world stage with all that pressure is completely different game . Everyone is watching now . Hope they can handle the hype and actually show what they are made of…
