"Hopefully he'll have a very big impact," said Solbakken, who was in the squad as a midfielder the last time Norway went to the World Cup. Solbakken believes Haaland is the world's best goalscorer and is physically fit after being given a break towards the end of the season.

Solbakken also emphasized the importance of their opening game against Iraq, who return to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years. "We are in a very competitive group, maybe the hardest of all. If you can start with three points then maybe you are on your way. You can't hide that it's a very important game," he said.

Solbakken is proud of the team's achievement and believes it would be a moment of pride for every Norwegian citizen to lead out their country in a game like this, especially after 28 years of absence.

Solbakken has seen Haaland play better and better in training and believes he's where he wants to be. He also hopes the team can give Haaland the service he needs to score goals, and that he'll continue to have a tendency to score when given chances.

Solbakken's comments highlight the significance of Haaland's role in the team and the importance of their opening game against Iraq.