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Norway handed Haaland blow for Spain showdown

Erling Haaland at Man City
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The in-form Man City striker won’t be available for both of Norway’s upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers.

Erling Haaland has withdrawn from the Norway squad following a groin injury.

The 22-year-old entered the international in red-hot form, having scored eight goals in his last two outings for Manchester City in the Champions League and FA Cup respectively.

However, soon after joining Norway for their first two Euro 2024 qualifiers, he had to return to Manchester City for a follow-up check on his injury.

“We hoped that this would carry over to Saturday,” team doctor Ola Sand told the Norwegian Football Federation website.

“But after doing tests and examinations yesterday, it became clear that he will not make it to the games against Spain and Georgia. It is better that he receives medical follow-up at the club.”

A Haaland-less Norway will first face Spain in Malaga this Saturday in Group A. They will then visit Georgia next Tuesday.

“Erling took it hard when he realized that he could not fight for the team,” Norway manager Stale Solbakken added.

“Fortunately, there is still plenty of self-confidence, talent, and cohesion in this group to win points in the next matches.”

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