Norway boss Stale Solbakken hails 'unstoppable' Erling Haaland for Senegal triumph

The Manchester City striker scored twice in the Group I victory, taking his tournament tally to four goals after two consecutive braces. Martin Odegaard created Haaland's first goal shortly after half-time before the forward added another with a composed finish to put Norway in control.

Despite Haaland missing several chances, Solbakken joked that his star striker could have scored even more.

"Today he did miss an open goal, and he could even have scored four," Solbakken said. "But he is the best striker. He is not playing for France or Argentina, he scores for Norway. He has scored four goals now, two braces on the biggest stage."

The victory moved Norway onto six points, level with France at the top of Group I, with the two sides set to meet in the final group match. While France have their own world-class goalscorer in Kylian Mbappe, Solbakken believes Norway can help Haaland compete for the Golden Boot.

"It's easier to win the Golden Boot when you play for France and Argentina, but we'll try to give Erling more games and more help in the next games," the Norway boss said. "He is on fire, and I'm very happy for him that he can score on the biggest stage."

The win marked a major moment for Norway, who reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time since their last appearance at the tournament in 1998. The players celebrated with the famous "row" chant made popular by their supporters.

With fatigue becoming a factor after a demanding match, Solbakken hinted he could make changes against France.

"We need to get back to our camp and make good restitution because we need that after a very tough game," he said. "There will be other players who play that game."

Haaland remained relaxed ahead of the meeting with France, joking about Norway's chances.

"I don't care, we are through," he said. "They'll probably beat us and go on and win the whole tournament."

Norway will face France in their final Group I match on Friday, June 26, at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

READ MORE: Erling Haaland brace fires Norway past Senegal into World Cup knockout stage