Erling Haaland has named France as his favourites to win the World Cup after Norway secured their place in the knockout stages with a 3-2 victory over Senegal. The Manchester City striker scored a second-half brace to help Norway to a vital win, moving them into second place in their group.
Haaland's brace secures Norway's progress
Haaland now has four goals in his first two World Cup games, having also scored twice in Norway's 4-1 opening win over Iraq. Norway are level on points with France, who top Group I after a 3-0 win over Iraq. Both teams face each other in their final group game next Friday in Boston. But with Norway already through to the knockouts for the first time since 1998, Haaland admitted he is not concerned about the result of that match.
Speaking to Fox Sports, Haaland said: 'Honestly, I don't care much [about the France game]. We're through; we managed to get through, which is incredible, so I couldn't care too much about that game now. They're probably going to win against us. They're probably going to win the whole tournament.'
Haaland on his performance
Reflecting on his display against Senegal, Haaland added: 'Yeah, special again. Another amazing night and super proud. I'm enjoying it a lot. I've been enjoying playing for Norway ever since my debut, and you can see that. The World Cup is nice.'
Norway boss Stale Solbakken praised his star striker and said the team will help him win the Golden Boot. 'Well, I mean, today he did miss an open goal, and he could even have scored four,' Solbakken joked. 'No, I mean, he is the best striker – he is not playing for France or Argentina, he scores for Norway. He's scored four goals now, two braces on the biggest stage. 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 also in the next games. So far, he's on fire and I'm very happy for him that he can score on the biggest stage.'
Golden Boot race
Haaland currently sits second in the Golden Boot race, tied with France's Kylian Mbappe on four goals. Argentine legend Lionel Messi leads the way with five goals after a hat-trick against Algeria and a match-winning brace against Austria on Monday.
