Norway are on the brink of qualifying for their first major tournament since 2000, following an exceptional run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Led by Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, who has scored 12 goals in six games, Stale Solbakken’s men have combined attacking flair with defensive solidity to dominate Group G.
Despite media focus on Haaland’s record-breaking form, Solbakken insists Norway’s success is built on teamwork and tactical balance. “This is a group that plays for each other, not for one man,” the coach said.
Captain Martin Ødegaard has been equally instrumental, providing eight assists and leading in chances created across Europe’s qualifiers. Norway have also impressed defensively, conceding only three goals and keeping four clean sheets.
With a win in their next fixture, the Scandinavian nation will seal their first World Cup appearance in 28 years, marking a new dawn for Norwegian football.