Why was Erling Haaland removed? Norway coach explains decision

Norway coach Ståle Solbakken explained that star striker Erling Haaland was substituted during their World Cup match against England due to extreme fatigue and a dead leg. Norway ultimately lost the match 2-1 following a late goal by Jude Bellingham.
Why it matters
The removal of a high-profile player like Haaland during a critical tournament match is a significant tactical moment that impacted the game's outcome.
Hear this story MIAMI GARDENS, FL ― When the final whistle blew on Saturday, following a 2-1 England win , Erling Haaland wasn't among the players on their knees, digesting the result on the pitch. Instead, Haaland was on the bench .
The Norway star was subbed off at the start of the second half of extra time and had to watch his team struggle to rally against England without his assistance or production. The 25-year-old also did not score at Hard Rock Stadium. It was the first time Haaland hadn't found the back of the net in an international match since he played Austria on October 13, 2024 − 636 days ago.
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