If you follow Norway’s national side, you’ve probably noticed a mix of excitement and uncertainty on the pitch. The lads are juggling Euro qualifiers, World Cup hopes, and a few friendly games that test new tactics. In this guide we’ll break down the latest scores, look at who’s shining, and point out the matches you shouldn’t miss.
Norway’s most recent competitive outing was a 2‑1 win over Austria in the Euro 2024 qualifiers. The game started slow, but a first‑half goal from Erling Haaland turned the tide. A late strike from Martin Ødegaard sealed the three points. The next match saw Sweden edge Norway 1‑0 in a tightly‑fought friendly, with the only goal coming from Alexander Isak’s header. Those two results show that Norway can score against strong teams but still needs a tighter defense.
In the Nations League, Norway took a 3‑0 defeat to Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo’s free‑kick and Bruno Fernandes’ assist left the Norwegians scrambling. The loss highlighted a lack of depth in the back line when starter Kristoffer Ajer was forced off early due to injury.
Erling Haaland – The striker’s pace and finishing are still the biggest assets. He’s scoring in almost every match and his movement creates space for teammates.
Martin Ødegaard – As captain and midfield mastermind, Ødegaard decides the tempo. When he’s on the ball, Norway looks more organized.
Kristoffer Ajer – A solid centre‑back who also likes to push forward. His injury concerns have forced the coach to try younger options like Sven Botman.
Johan Bjørdal – The wing‑back provides width and often tracks back quickly, helping to balance attack and defense.
Watch out for emerging talents from the Eliteserien, especially striker Ola Solbakken, who’s been scoring consistently for Bodø/Glimt and could soon earn his first senior cap.
Coach Ståle Solbakken is experimenting with a three‑defender system, which means full‑backs are now wing‑players. This shift aims to give Haaland more room in the box, but it also exposes the team to quick counter‑attacks. The upcoming match against Denmark will be a good test of whether the new setup works against a fast‑moving side.
For fans looking to catch the next game, Norway’s schedule includes a home friendly against England in September and a crucial qualifier versus Italy in October. Both matches will be streamed live on the national broadcaster, and you’ll hear plenty of analysis on what the new formation means for the team’s future.
In short, Norway’s international side is in a phase of transition. The core stars are delivering, but the defensive unit needs more consistency. Keep an eye on the schedule, track the players mentioned above, and you’ll stay ahead of the story as it unfolds.
Thelo Aasgaard's time with the Norway squad is at risk after Luton Town’s drop to League One. Despite a £3.5m transfer from Wigan, his chances with the national team look bleak if he stays in the third tier. Wigan could profit from any move due to a sell-on clause, while former Wigan teammates thrive elsewhere.
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