This team has too much talent to be seen as a mid-tier contender, and I believe Norway will emerge as a surprising contender for the top spot. This will mark their fourth World Cup appearance and their first in this century. With a standout elite scorer and numerous playmakers, the Scandinavian team aims to launch an aggressive offensive strategy.
My path to qualification:
The team dominated the European qualifiers, finishing the group stage with a perfect record in eight matches, including two victories against the formidable Italy. In an unexpected twist, Norway was placed in pot 3, positioning them as a top contender in a tough group.
World Cup Group Stage Schedule:
- June 16: Norway vs. FIFA Playoffs 2 (Bolivia, Suriname, Iraq) — Boston Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts (6 p.m. ET)
- June 22: Norway vs. Senegal — New York-New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J. (8 p.m. ET)
- June 26: Norway vs. France — Boston Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts (3 p.m. ET)
Group I: France, Senegal, FIFA Playoffs 2, Norway | 2026 FIFA World Cup Draw
Group I will feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, comprising France, Senegal, FIFA Playoffs 2 winners, and Norway.
Historical World Cup performances:
What is Norway’s best achievement in the World Cup?
Key players for Norway at the World Cup:
Erling Haaland is a powerhouse. The Manchester City forward has shattered the 100-goal mark in the Premier League and contributed significantly to his team’s first Champions League title. His impressive scoring rate for the national team stands at 55 goals in 48 games.
Although Martin Odegaard has faced injuries, he remains a top creator for Arsenal. Against formidable competition, Haaland will rely on Odegaard’s midfield prowess to generate scoring opportunities.
Even without Haaland, Norway boasts a strong striker in Alexander Sorloth, who has netted 26 goals in 68 appearances for the national team and serves as a key player for Atletico Madrid. Haaland’s teammate, Oscar Bobb, has also proven to be a vital midfielder for both club and country.
Norway’s coach for the World Cup:
Støre Solbakken has held the managerial role since 2020, guiding Norway’s generation of talent. A former coach at FC Copenhagen, he has won multiple titles in the Danish Superliga and has previously coached teams in Norway, Germany, and England.
Norway’s all-time leading goal scorers:
- Erling Haaland: 55 goals (active player)
- Previously played for Blain, Molde 2, Red Bull Salzburg, and Borussia Dortmund; currently plays for Manchester City.
Norway’s all-time cap leaders:
- John Arne Riise: 110 caps
- Has played for Ålesund, Monaco, Liverpool, Roma, Fulham, and APOEL.
Norwegian national team nickname:
About Norway:
- Population: Approximately 5.6 million
- Capital: Oslo
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Fan Take: Norway’s emergence as a dark horse in this World Cup could shake up the traditional power dynamics in soccer. With a generation of talented players, their success could pave the way for a renewal of interest in Scandinavian football, inspiring future generations.
