Norway begins World Cup preparations led by Haaland
The Norway national team squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been announced. Ranked 31st in the FIFA rankings, the 'Vikings' are heading to the big stage with a serious lineup. The squad includes both experienced players established in European football and young talents with high expectations.
The biggest star of the squad is undoubtedly Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. With him involved, Norway becomes a dangerous team against any opponent's goal. Haaland's physical strength, goal-scoring instinct, and composure in the penalty area are expected to be the 'Vikings'' main weapons.
Haaland is not alone in the attack. Atlético forward Alexander Sørloth, Crystal Palace representative Jørgen Strand Larsen, and RB Leipzig talent Antonio Nusa have also been included. This shows that Norway has players with different styles in attack: some apply pressure with power, while others break through defenses with speed.
In midfield, the team captain and primary playmaker is Martin Ødegaard. The Arsenal leader is the player who dictates the tempo, organizes attacks, and finds delicate passes between opposition defenders. Alongside him, Sander Berge, Patrick Berg, Fredrik Aursnes, Oscar Bobb, Andreas Schjelderup, and others show that Norway is quite solid in the center.
The defensive line features players like Kristoffer Ajer, Fredrik Bjørkan, Leo Østigård, Julian Ryerson, and David Møller Wolfe. They have gained experience in various leagues and will be responsible for Norway's stability in a major tournament like the World Cup. Ørjan Nyland, Egil Selvik, and Sander Tangvik have been called up to guard the goal.
The group stage will not be easy for Norway. In the 2026 World Cup, the 'Vikings' have been drawn into a group with France, Senegal, and Iraq. France is one of the tournament favorites, Senegal is a dangerous team relying on physical strength and speed, and Iraq can cause trouble for any opponent with their fighting spirit.
Nevertheless, looking at Norway's squad, it is difficult to view this team merely as a participant. A lineup built around two major stars like Haaland and Ødegaard could cause problems for many at the World Cup. If the team is disciplined in defense and sharp in attack, they will become a serious contender to advance from the group.
In short, Norway is heading to the World Cup with strong names, high hopes, and serious goals. Haaland is ready to score, and Ødegaard is ready to control the game. Now, the only thing required of the 'Vikings' is to turn a star-studded squad into a real team on the pitch. At the World Cup, it's not names that speak, but the game itself — and Norway must now prove that.
