Why Erling Haaland is not playing for Norway against France in World Cup

Haaland has been named on the bench for tonight’s game (Picture: Visionhaus/Getty Images)

Erling Haaland has been left on the bench for Norway’s final World Cup group match against France.

The Manchester City striker has four goals from his first two matches at the tournament having bagged a brace in victories over Iraq and Senegal.

It leaves him level with Kylian Mbappe and one behind leading goal scorer Lionel Messi.

France and Norway are level on points ahead of their group finale, meeting in what is a straight shoot-out for top spot with both nations already qualified for the knockout stages.

While Les Blues named a strong starting XI, Norway manager Ståle Solbakken made 10 changes to his side.

Haaland’s omission from the starting XI is not an enforced decision. It is purely a selection decision with his head coach opting to rest him ahead of the last 32 stage game against an opponent still to be determined.

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaatd was also among those left out of the starting XI with Fredrik Aursnes the only man to keep his place in midfield.

Haaland warming up ahead of kick-off (Picture: AFP via Getty Images)

Solbakken’s decision to leave the game’s most feared no9 out his starting XI left many bemused.

The decision surprised Arsenal legend Ian Wright who told ITV1: ‘If he needs a rest for the latter stages of this tournament, he will take that.

‘Jorgen Strand Larsen will get a chance and we can see what he can do. But I am surprised. We will probably see what happens in the next game with decisions like this.’

Another former Arsenal star in Patrick Vieira was also taken aback by the decision, believing it sends the wrong message.

Haaland could get his chance off the bench (Picture: FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images)

‘The message is really clear, there is nothing to play for them today,’ Vieira said.

‘Finishing first can be really important, changing 10 players and not having your top players in from the start, I think it sends the message they are happy finishing second.’

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was another left bemused, telling Fox Sports: ‘Norway have a chance to top the group and get easier knockout opponents, yet they’re scared before the game.

‘That’s not the mentality you need when you play for your country at the World Cup’

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