After years of near misses and unrealised potential, Norway are finally back on football’s biggest stage. The Scandinavian nation has announced its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Martin Odegaard captaining a side brimming with talent and confidence ahead of its first appearance at the tournament since 1998.
The squad announcement itself drew widespread attention after Norway’s King delivered the final selection through a pre-recorded social media video, adding a touch of national pride and theatre to a moment generations of Norwegian fans have waited for.
The return to the World Cup represents the culmination of years of development for a team that boasts one of Europe’s most exciting attacking units, led by Manchester City goal machine Erling Haaland.
Haaland and Odegaard carry Norway’s hopes
Much of Norway’s optimism revolves around the partnership between Haaland and Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard. While Haaland remains one of world football’s most feared finishers, Odegaard provides the creativity and leadership that have transformed Norway into a genuine threat against elite opposition.
The squad also includes Crystal Palace striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, Atletico Madrid forward Alexander Sorloth, Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup and highly rated attacker Antonio Nusa, giving Norway considerable firepower heading into the tournament.
In midfield, Fulham’s Sander Berge, Benfica’s Fredrik Aursnes and Rangers midfielder Thelo Aasgaard add depth and balance alongside Odegaard.
Also Read | Brazil seek revival under Ancelotti as World Cup drought stretches into third decade
Defensive stability and a surprise inclusion
Norway’s defence features a blend of experience from across Europe’s top leagues. Borussia Dortmund full-back Julian Ryerson, Brentford defender Kristoffer Ajer and Genoa centre-back Leo Skiri Ostigard form the backbone of a backline expected to play a crucial role against stronger opponents.
The biggest surprise in the squad is uncapped Hamburger SV goalkeeper Sander Tangvik. The 23-year-old received a late call-up following an injury to Mathias Dyngeland, becoming the only player in the squad yet to earn a senior international appearance.
Derby County defender Sondre Langas admitted he was stunned by the unusual announcement, joking that he did not fully believe his inclusion until the King’s video had finished.
Also Read | Japan carry Asia’s greatest World Cup hopes as decades of planning face ultimate test
Tough group awaits in North America
Norway begin their World Cup campaign against Iraq in Boston on June 16 before taking on Senegal and France in what promises to be a challenging group.
While France enter as overwhelming favourites, Norway’s impressive qualifying campaign and attacking quality have fuelled hopes of reaching the knockout stages. With Haaland in front of goal and Odegaard orchestrating play, Norway possess the tools to trouble any opponent.
For a country returning to the World Cup after a long absence, expectations are high. Norway may not be among the tournament favourites, but their talented generation finally has the opportunity to prove it belongs on football’s biggest stage.
