Why Erling Haaland is not playing for Norway against France in World Cup

Haaland has been named on the bench for tonight’s game (Picture: Visionhaus/Getty Images)

Erling Haaland has been left on the bench for Norway’s final World Cup group match against France.

The Manchester City striker has four goals from his first two matches, level with Kylian Mbappe and one behind leading goal scorer Lionel Messi.

France and Norway are level on points ahead of their group finale, meeting in what is a straight shoot out for top spot with both nations already qualified for the knockout stages.

While Les Blues have named a strong starting XI, Norway manager Ståle Solbakken has made 10 changes to his side.

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(Picture: Getty)

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Haaland’s omission from the starting XI is purely a selection decision with his head coach opting to rest him for the last 32 stage.

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