Goalkeeper Unai Simon emphasized the necessity of keeping the formidable Norwegian striker, Erling Haaland, at a distance from Spain’s goal during a crucial Euro 2024 qualifier on Sunday.
A victory in Oslo could secure La Roja’s spot in Germany next summer; however, the relentless pursuit of victory by Haaland and Norway poses a significant obstacle.
In a March encounter, when Spain triumphed over Norway 3-0, Manchester City’s forward Haaland was sidelined due to an injury. Nevertheless, he made a powerful comeback by scoring two goals against Cyprus on Thursday, keeping his country’s Euro 2024 aspirations alive.
Should Norway fail to secure victory and Group A leaders Scotland emerge victorious, Spain would have the opportunity to secure their place at the tournament with a win in either of their remaining two games.
“We see how decisive (Haaland) is in the box in every game,” Simon told a news conference Saturday.
“Any ball Haaland touches in the box could be a goal, whether it’s an aerial ball, a low one, left foot or right foot, he’s a born goalscorer.
“We’ll try to keep him as far from the box as possible, as far from our goal, and when he’s in our area, make sure he doesn’t touch the ball — he’s got an out-of-the-ordinary probability of scoring.”
Haaland took the English top flight by storm last season after arriving at Man City from Borussia Dortmund, netting 36 in the Premier League to break the competition’s all-time single-season record.
The 23-year-old striker has scored 27 goals in 27 appearances for the Norway national team.
When asked about Haaland, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said his team would stay alert to stop the forward, and Norway’s other threats.
“We will try to be at our best, to go out there with total concentration to contain the opponent’s attacks,” said the coach.
“(Haaland) is a specialist in dynamic attacking but I’m very happy with the work of our centre-backs, we’ll try to counter these characteristics — not just of Haaland but other dangerous players.”
Norway playmaker Martin Odegaard said he thought Haaland was the world’s best footballer earlier Saturday, but also highlighted his team have other assets.
“It’s true that Haaland is the best in the world, but there are more (players),” said Arsenal midfielder Odegaard.
“We know what Haaland is, but everyone has a lot to offer — we play as a team.”
