World Cup Preview: Norway

Norway arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup carrying the hopes of a nation eager to make up for lost time. The Scandinavians have endured a long absence from major tournaments despite producing some world-class talent, but that drought is finally over. With a squad led by Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, Norway are widely regarded as one of the tournament’s most dangerous dark horses.

Fixtures (UK time)

Iraq, June 16, 11pm
Senegal, June 23, 1am
France, June 26, 8pm

How They Qualified

Norway secured qualification for their first World Cup since 1998 after a superb UEFA qualifying campaign, winning all eight games and including two wins against former world champions Italy. Led by their star-studded attacking talent, the Norwegians produced a series of impressive performances and showed a consistency that had often eluded previous generations. Qualification ended a wait of almost three decades and sparked huge excitement among supporters who have long believed this talented group could achieve something special.

The Manager

Stale Solbakken has been the architect of Norway’s long-awaited return to the World Cup. One of the most respected coaches in Scandinavian football, the former midfielder enjoyed considerable success with FC Copenhagen, winning multiple Danish league titles and guiding the club into the UEFA Champions League group stage on several occasions. Since taking charge of Norway in 2020, Solbakken has gradually moulded an exciting collection of talent into a cohesive unit. The 58-year-old deserves enormous credit for ending one of international football’s longest major tournament absences.

The Star

Erling Haaland is one of the most feared strikers in world football. The Manchester City forward has shattered goalscoring records throughout his career, winning multiple Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League while establishing himself as one of the game’s elite forwards. Despite his remarkable club success, Haaland has never previously appeared at a major international tournament. With 55 international goals already to his name, a Norwegian record, the striker arrives in North America determined to make his mark on the biggest stage of all.

The Familiar Face

Martin Odegaard will be instantly recognisable as Arsenal’s Premier League-winning captain. After joining Real Madrid as a teenager, the midfielder fulfilled his immense potential following his move to North London, becoming one of the Premier League’s most creative and influential players. Odegaard has also emerged as the leader of the Norwegian national team, combining technical brilliance with maturity and leadership. His partnership with Haaland gives Norway one of the most exciting attacking combinations at the tournament.

Did you know?

Erling Haaland was born in Leeds while his father Alf-Inge Haaland was playing for Leeds United. If he had chosen to represent England instead, Norway’s greatest-ever goalscorer could have been lining up against them rather than for them.

The Prediction

Round of 16

Norway have been handed a challenging group, but one that also presents a genuine opportunity. France are expected to top Group I, leaving Norway and Senegal as the likely contenders for second place. Even if they finish third, the expanded format could provide a route into the knockout stages. With Haaland capable of scoring against any opponent and Odegaard supplying the creativity, Norway possess the firepower needed to progress. A place in the Round of 16 looks a realistic target, although a lack of recent tournament experience may prevent them from going much further.

Cover Photo: Norway – day 8. Hammerfest, Norwegian flag.” by Anne & David (Use Albums) is marked with Public Domain Mark 1.0 .