Norway
Key Players
Squad
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
About
Norway return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1998, ending a 28-year absence from football's biggest stage. The wait has been worth it: this Norwegian squad, spearheaded by Erling Haaland — arguably the most prolific goalscorer on the planet — arrives with genuine ambitions to make an impact. Under Stale Solbakken, Norway qualified through European qualifying, proving they are more than just the Haaland show. The squad boasts remarkable depth for a nation of 5.5 million people. Haaland at Manchester City is the tournament's most feared striker, a goal machine whose physical presence and clinical finishing have shattered records across the Premier League and Champions League. Martin Odegaard, Arsenal's captain and one of the Premier League's most creative players, provides the vision and playmaking that unlocks defenses. Sander Berge at Fulham adds midfield steel, while Alexander Sorloth at Atletico Madrid and Jorgen Strand Larsen at Crystal Palace give Norway genuine alternative attacking options. The young Antonio Nusa at RB Leipzig and Andreas Schjelderup at Benfica represent exciting future talent. Drawn into Group I with France, Senegal, and Iraq, Norway's primary target is second place behind France. The Haaland-Odegaard partnership is world-class, but France's depth makes them prohibitive favorites. Senegal will be the crucial match for knockout-round qualification, while Iraq should be beatable. With Haaland and Odegaard leading the charge, Norway are genuine dark horses. A quarterfinal would be extraordinary for Norwegian football; even a Round of 32 appearance would be celebrated nationwide. The passionate Norwegian supporters will travel in numbers to the US venues.
Group Stage Schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the coach of Norway at World Cup 2026?
Stale Solbakken is the head coach of Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The former Norwegian international midfielder guided Norway through European qualifying to end their 28-year World Cup absence.
What group is Norway in at World Cup 2026?
Norway are in Group I at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside France, Senegal, and Iraq. Norway are expected to compete with Senegal for second place behind France.
Is Erling Haaland playing at World Cup 2026?
Yes, Erling Haaland is the star of Norway's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Manchester City striker, widely considered the best number 9 in world football, will be playing in his first-ever World Cup. Haaland is one of the tournament's most anticipated players.
When was Norway's last World Cup?
Norway's last World Cup appearance was in 1998 in France, where they reached the Round of 16 by beating Brazil 2-1 in the group stage. They had previously appeared in 1938 and 1994. The 2026 World Cup ends a 28-year absence.
Who are the key players for Norway at World Cup 2026?
Norway's key players include Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Martin Odegaard (Arsenal), Sander Berge (Fulham), Alexander Sorloth (Atletico Madrid), and Julian Ryerson (Borussia Dortmund). The Haaland-Odegaard partnership is one of the most exciting in world football.