Norway striker Erling Haaland has attempted to ease expectations ahead of his side’s crucial FIFA World Cup clash against France, insisting that the French remain overwhelming favourites despite Norway’s impressive start to the tournament.
Fresh from scoring a brace in Norway’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Senegal, Haaland helped secure his nation’s place in the knockout stages and continued his excellent form at the World Cup.
However, the prolific forward was quick to dismiss suggestions that Norway could be considered contenders against one of the tournament’s strongest teams.
Speaking after the win, Haaland admitted he was not overly concerned about the upcoming showdown with France and even backed the European giants to come out on top.
“I couldn’t care too much about that game now… they’re probably going to win against us,” Haaland said.
The Manchester City star went even further in his assessment, describing France as the leading favourites to lift the trophy.
“And they’re probably going to win the whole tournament,” he added.
Haaland’s comments reflect the respect Norway have for a French side that has been dominant throughout the competition.
France have already secured victories over Senegal and Iraq in Group I, scoring six goals and conceding just once, underlining their status as one of the teams to beat.
Despite Haaland’s modest outlook, Norway have emerged as one of the tournament’s surprise packages.
The Scandinavians opened their campaign with a convincing 4-1 victory over Iraq before edging Senegal in a five-goal thriller.
Haaland has been central to that success, scoring four goals in two matches and establishing himself among the competition’s leading scorers.
The highly anticipated Group I encounter between Norway and France is expected to determine the group winner and provide a major test of Norway’s credentials.
While Haaland may be downplaying his team’s chances, his current form ensures that France will not take the Norwegian attack lightly.
With both teams already through to the next round, Friday’s clash promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the group stage as Haaland and Norway seek to prove they can compete with the tournament favourites.
