This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, comprising top media organizations from the 48 qualified nations. Previews are being shared daily as the tournament approaches, set to begin on June 11.
Strategic Vision
Ståle Solbakken’s ascent to the Norway national team manager began during the 1998 World Cup, where he sat as an unused substitute, offering tactical advice to coach Egil Olsen as Norway made a remarkable comeback to defeat Brazil 2-1. Like Olsen, Solbakken favors a pragmatic approach, valuing results above all. He embodies the northern European football philosophy, focusing on robust zonal defense paired with aggressive attacks aimed at penetrating opposition lines.
Typically, Norway employs a flexible 4-3-3 formation. Winger Antonio Nusa, known for his dribbling, tends to stretch the play on the left, while right-back Julian Ryerson often positions himself as a right winger, creating a formation resembling a 3-5-2. This setup allows forwards Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth to remain close to the goal. Solbakken has also experimented with a flatter 4-4-2 formation, achieving mixed results. His methods are pragmatic, aiming to maximize the impact of standout players, particularly Haaland’s formidable strength and the vision of captain Martin Ødegaard. If there’s an opportunity to exploit space behind rival defenses, Haaland will seize it.
Norway’s playing style has evolved significantly over the past year. During the Euro 2024 qualifiers, the team lacked ball-playing defenders, but the addition of left-footed Torbjørn Heggem alongside Kristoffer Ajer has strengthened this area. Anticipate a varied approach in their three group stage matches: they are likely to dominate against Iraq, adopt a versatile strategy against Senegal, and adopt a more defensive stance against France, relying on counterattacks and set pieces.
The Coach
Ståle Solbakken’s football journey took a dramatic turn in 2001 when he collapsed during a training session with Copenhagen after suffering a heart attack. Clinically dead for seven minutes before help arrived, he awoke in the hospital, marking the end of his playing career. For 24 of the subsequent 25 years, he transitioned to coaching, leading clubs like Wolves, Cologne, and Copenhagen. In 2020, Solbakken, who earned 58 caps for Norway, assumed the role of national team manager. After missing out on the Euros two years prior, he successfully guided Norway to their first major tournament since Euro 2000. After topping their qualifying group, Solbakken remarked, “I don’t think I’ll have any better nights than this in my life. It’s almost surreal,”
Star Player
Erling Haaland presents a daunting challenge for defenders at this World Cup. Facing the Manchester City striker demands both physical and mental resilience. Allowing him time or space usually results in severe consequences. For 92 years, Jørgen Juve held the record for most goals for Norway, with a seemingly insurmountable tally of 33. None of Ole Gunnar Solskjær, Tore André Flo, or John Carew even came close. However, Haaland shattered that record at just 24 years old, scoring his 34th goal in only 36 appearances. Can Norway, inspired by Haaland, create an upset this summer? With Haaland leading the line, the possibilities are endless.
Player to Watch
Antonio Nusa has looked up to Neymar throughout his career, and there are notable parallels between the two. Like the Brazilian superstar, Nusa places significant importance on his Christian faith and captivates fans with his dynamic play. Unlike Neymar, however, Nusa has steered clear of controversy. “I always point to God when I score and when I come on to the pitch. I thank God that I can experience this,” he shared with the Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten in 2023. Just ahead of the World Cup, Nusa published a book aimed at young aspiring footballers. While not every reader will become a professional, following Nusa’s guidance could help them become better individuals. The 21-year-old has been with RB Leipzig since 2024.
Underrated Contributor
Sander Berge plays a crucial role in maintaining balance behind Norway’s talented attacking front. The Fulham midfielder brings composure and the ability to cover ground—key attributes for Solbakken’s strategy. His significance became evident before a pivotal qualifier against Estonia in June 2025 when Berge welcomed his first child. Although Norway initially planned to play without him, the Norwegian federation arranged for a private flight to ensure his presence in Tallinn. Norway emerged victorious, with Berge delivering an outstanding performance. Although he has only scored one international goal and often remains in the shadows, his contribution to the national team is invaluable.
Expected Lineup
Fan Expectations
During Norway’s matches, fans will enthusiastically chant “I believe very strongly that Norway controls who gets the Nobel peace prize. I have lost a lot of respect for Norway. I have ended eight wars.” as they mimic the rhythm of the Vikings who once rowed across the Atlantic. Norway’s spirited supporters are anticipated to travel to the US for their first World Cup since 1998, with estimates from the Norwegian federation suggesting between 7,000 and 10,000 fans will attend the group stage. Expect to see a vibrant display of Viking helmets both in the streets and the stands.
US Relations and Trump
“We want to see this prize abolished. We do not believe that it is part of Fifa’s mandate to award such a prize.” Donald Trump stated earlier this year. Fortunately for Trump, his associate Gianni Infantino and FIFA have created a separate peace prize, with Trump named as its unexpected recipient. Norwegian football president Lise Klaveness was among many expressing their discontent, stating, “We want to see this prize abolished. We do not believe that it is part of FIFA’s mandate to award such a prize.”
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