Norway coach explains leaving out Haaland, Odegaard against France

Norway coach Stale Solbakken justified the absence of Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard in a 4-1 defeat to France on June 26 at the World Cup, citing concerns over player condition due to a short turnaround from their previous match against Senegal. Solbakken made 10 changes to the lineup, highlighting that the decision was made in the best interest of team performance. Haaland had scored four goals in the tournament prior, while Norway struggled without him and Odegaard, who is the team's captain. The loss puts Norway in a position where they will next face Ivory Coast on July 2 in a crucial match for their continuation in the tournament.

• 11:18 PMYahoo Sports — Norway coach defends decision to leave out Haaland, Odegaard against France