Norway's Stale Solbakken warns of Senegal's FIFA World Cup threat

Norway marked their first World Cup appearance in 28 years with an impressive 4-1 victory over Iraq, a result that lifted them to the top of Group I ahead of France on goal difference.

 Erling Haaland scored twice in the opening match and will again be expected to lead Norway's attack when they face Senegal in New York on Monday.

Despite the strong start, Solbakken warned that Senegal possess the quality and speed to punish any mistakes ahead of their clash on Monday at New York New Jersey Stadium.

"I'm not afraid or anything tomorrow, but I have great respect for Senegal," Solbakken told reporters.

"They are a fast and quality side, and we will need to be ready to face that, defending their wingers and being wary of their counters. Sadio Mane is a great player, but the most important thing for me is that we keep our identity and follow what we do best."

Senegal opened their campaign with a 3-1 defeat to France and know they need a positive result to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage firmly alive.

Norway entered the tournament in excellent form after winning all eight of their qualifying matches and scoring 37 goals. Another victory would strengthen their position ahead of a potentially decisive final group game against France, but Solbakken insisted his side were not looking too far ahead.

"We are not doing maths or anything. We need to put in another good performance and keep improving, and think about qualification later at another point," he said.

Haaland's double against Iraq underlined his importance to the team, but Solbakken stressed that Norway's success depends on collective effort rather than one player.

"Haaland is in great shape, and let's hope there is more to come," he said.

"He needs help, and I hope we can help him too with great support. Let's hope he continues to bring us joy through goals."

Solbakken also raised concerns about the playing surface at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, describing it as hard and similar to artificial turf.

"We looked at the pitch, and it is a bit like artificial grass, short and hard underneath," he said.

"It seems bad for teams who like to hold possession. Sure, if the pitch is dry, it would be a problem, but tomorrow the forecast is rain, so it should help. But we can't do anything, it is what it is."

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