Norway, Solbakken: "Haaland is a machine. Vinícius is a dancer
Stale Solbakken, Norway's coach, previewed the duel with Brazil and made several points clear about the Nordic approach to the 2026 World Cup. In a conference, the coach highlighted the importance of Erling Haaland for the team, admitted that Oscar Bobb and Alexander Sørloth will have minutes against Canarinha and commented on the physical state of Julian Ryerson, still managed with caution.“Ryerson trained with the group the last two days. He hasn't had any pain in the last three, but we're still not completely convinced that he can take on this role from the start. There are other useful options in the position and, whatever happens, he may not play the full 120 minutes, if that is the case”, he said, leaving open the use of the full-back, a relevant piece in the Nordics' defensive balance.
Solbakken reinforced the idea of absolute focus in each match, without getting carried away by the context. “We have to play our game, not the occasion. Since we won the first one in the group stage, the most important thing has been to focus on each challenge, not on isolated opportunities.” And, regarding the offensive plan, he was adamant: “Bobb and Sørloth will play during the match.”
Regarding Haaland, the selector did not spare his praise, but maintained his demands. "Haaland is very useful, he means a lot to the team because of what he does on the pitch. When he is well, he gives the group a boost and tremendous motivation. Of course, if a striker doesn't score, he loses his usefulness – that's clear." The goalscorer's form and physical energy in this competition were also highlighted as an asset for Norway.
Tactically, Solbakken pointed out the importance of full-backs to help the wings and limit one-on-one situations, a critical detail against a Brazil full of talent in the final third. "If these duels appear, we will manage them. We hope that our style of play will be useful." The coach also admitted the need to adapt to the Brazilian offensive design: “We will see if we can keep up with Brazil's trident, or if they return to using four forwards up front, as they did in the second half against Japan.”
As for favoritism, the Norwegian was balanced. "Of course, Brazil are favorites, but I don't see them as absolute favorites like in the past. We have confidence, a good style of play, and that helps us. It's difficult to quantify in percentages, but we can hurt Brazil. If we don't play at our best level, we won't have a chance."
To top it off, the star comparison that will delight fans: “Haaland is a machine; Vinícius is a dancer who dances with the ball.” A perfect summary of the clash of styles that promises to mark the meeting between Norwegians and Brazilians on the way to the 2026 World Cup.
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