Why is Erling Haaland not playing for Norway vs Netherlands today?

Erling Haaland will not have the opportunity to add to his remarkable international scoring record on Friday, with the Manchester City striker rested for Norway’s friendly away to the Netherlands.

Haaland’s staggering scoring record

Haaland has netted an astonishing 55 times in just 48 appearances for his country, including 17 goals in nine games in 2025 and in each of his last 10 outings at international level. The 25-year-old ensured Norway reached the World Cup for the first time since 1998 by scoring 16 times in qualification, twice as many as any other player.

Norway manage Haaland’s workload

Despite his absence in the Netherlands, there is no need for City fans to worry. Norway coach Ståle Solbakken confirmed before Friday’s game that Haaland would not be involved, instead giving him time to recharge ahead of a busy end to the club season and the World Cup.

Haaland is, however, expected to feature in Tuesday’s friendly against Switzerland in Oslo.

Norway’s dominant qualifying campaign

Norway qualified for the 2026 World Cup in emphatic fashion, winning all eight of their qualifying games and scoring 37 goals. Highlights included an 11-1 thrashing of Moldova and two three-goal victories over Italy.

In the finals, the Scandinavians will face France, Senegal, and the winner of the intercontinental playoff between Iraq and Bolivia in Group I.

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