Following its win over Brazil on Sunday, Norway was supposed to have a long rest ahead of its quarterfinal match against England at the 2026 World Cup. But that layoff has been anything but restful for Team Norway thus far.
Just days after his team’s win over Brazil, Norway coach Stale Solbakken said “a few players” were battling an illness. Norway has dealt with some type of ailment throughout the event, as Jorgen Strand Larsen and Marcus Holmgren Pedersen have already missed games due to sickness.
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In addition to illness spreading among team members, Norway also decided to change hotels just days ahead of its match against England. The team spent just one night in their hotel — The Dalmar in Fort Lauderdale — reportedly due to excessive noise, per reports. There was reportedly construction outside the building, which led to complaints from players.
Norway captain Martin Ødegaard didn’t get into specifics on what caused the team to relocate, merely saying things “could have been better,” per The Mirror.
“There were some things that could have been better, and we fixed them. Just to optimize and prepare ourselves as best as possible for an important match.”
With both issues now seemingly behind the team, Norway can focus on being at its best when it takes the pitch against England on Saturday for arguably the most anticipated game of the quarterfinals. England comes in as the favorite, but Erling Haaland has helped turn Norway into a legitimate World Cup contender as well. The victor of this match could wind up winning the whole thing.
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Because of that, it’s highly important that Norway comes into the match healthy and well-rested. The team not only wants to give itself the best chance of winning Saturday, but soccer fans will benefit greatly from watching two of the best teams in the event square off at full strength.
