Solbakken reportedly accepts that Kane is England’s leading match-winner and Haaland holds the same status for Norway. But he warned against overlooking the players responsible for creating the chances, controlling possession and protecting their own penalty area.
“There's no doubt that Haaland is our biggest match-winner, but I think you underestimate some of the other players if you think that's the whole theme,” Solbakken said.
That is an important distinction. Kane can influence a game by dropping deeper, linking attacks and bringing runners into play, while Haaland is at his most dangerous when Norway can supply him quickly and consistently. The contest may ultimately be shaped by midfield pressure, wide areas and set pieces before either striker gets a decisive opportunity.
Solbakken also reportedly used his media duties to send support to former England manager and player Kevin Keegan, who has been undergoing cancer treatment.
The Norwegian manager described Keegan as a childhood hero, recalling how English football captured the imagination of young supporters in Norway. His affection was clear when he said: “My team was Liverpool and Kevin was my man.”
He added: “I hope Kevin is well. So I say hello to Kevin.”
The Kane-Haaland storyline will dominate the build-up, but Solbakken’s warning reflects the demands of tournament football. England must limit Haaland’s service, while Norway will need to handle Kane’s movement and the quality around him.
When the quarter-final begins, the decisive question may not be which striker shines brightest, but which team gives its match-winner the better platform.