Norway's Martin Odegaard Confident Ahead of FIFA World Cup Opener Against Iraq
Odegaard Dismisses Fitness Concerns
Boston [US], June 15: As Norway gears up for their FIFA World Cup opener against Iraq, captain Martin Odegaard has alleviated any worries regarding his fitness. This match marks Norway's first appearance in the World Cup since 1998, as reported by a News Media outlet.
Norway's promising squad, featuring Arsenal's Odegaard and Manchester City's prolific striker Erling Haaland, is set to kick off their campaign against Iraq. This event signifies their return to the international football stage after a long hiatus since their last World Cup in 1998, where they reached the round of 16.
Despite facing some injury issues earlier this year, Odegaard played a pivotal role in Arsenal's successful season, helping the team secure the Premier League title after a 22-year gap and finishing as runners-up in the UEFA Champions League against Paris Saint-Germain.
In a press conference, Odegaard stated, "I feel good. I do not understand the concerns; yes, I have had some issues, but I am feeling well now."
Norway qualified for the World Cup by outperforming Italy, the four-time champions, and Israel, achieving an impressive record of 37 goals scored and only five conceded in eight consecutive victories.
Odegaard emphasized that the team's expectations have evolved since qualifying, saying, "We are raising our standards based on our qualifying performance. Now, our focus is solely on Iraq."
Norway's head coach Stale Solbakken confirmed that both Odegaard and Haaland are fit for the opener, with Haaland reportedly having an outstanding training session on Friday. The coach humorously noted, "He had his best training session yesterday, scoring what could have been the goal of the year with a volley from 20 meters."
Norway is placed in Group I alongside France, Iraq, and Senegal. This marks only their fourth World Cup appearance, with their best result being a round of 16 finish in 1998.
Norway squad includes: Goalkeepers: Orjan Haskjold Nyland, Egil Selvik, Sander Tangvik. Defenders: Kristoffer Vassbakk Ajer, Fredrik Bjorkan, Henrik Falchener, Sondre Langas, Torbjorn Heggem, Marcus Holmgren Pedersen, Julian Ryerson, David Moller Wolfe, Leo Ostigard. Midfielders: Thelonious Aasgaard, Fredrik Aursnes, Patrick Berg, Sander Berge, Oscar Bobb, Jens Petter Hauge, Antonio Nusa, Andreas Schjelderup, Morten Thorsby, Kristian Thorstvedt, Martin Odegaard. Forwards: Erling Haaland, Jorgen Strand Larsen, Alexander Sorloth.