Norway, England's World Cup quarter-final opponents, have been struck by illness and fatigue ahead of their showdown with the Three Lions. The Scandinavian side, who advanced to the last eight with a victory over Brazil, have seen their preparations unsettled by sickness that has affected several players and staff.
Illness Hits Norway Squad
According to Norwegian publication Dagbladet, the team's relentless travel schedule has taken a toll. Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, Norway has made repeated trips to Boston, New Jersey, and Dallas. Crystal Palace forward Jorgen Strand Larsen missed the opening World Cup fixture through illness, while Marcus Holmgren Pedersen was ruled out of the knockout tie against Brazil with a bug. Head coach Stale Solbakken was seen coughing during a post-match press conference after Norway's 4-1 defeat to France.
Coach's Concerns
Solbakken voiced his concerns openly. "We've really only had Jorgen who has had a fever," he said. "But then there's been a bit of coughing and rasping evenly, scattered throughout. But there's air conditioning, flights, changing rooms and all that. We're over 50 people so it would be strange if one or the other didn't come." Regarding Pedersen's absence against Brazil, Solbakken added: "I think, without being a doctor, that it's a combination of the boy being young, he's come to the World Cup and thought, 'I'm going to be a backup for Julian [Ryerson]'. He's had two games and played great, got a lot of impressions, his head is full, his body is full of impressions, and the system is collapsing a bit."
England's Own Challenges
England have faced their own gruelling travel schedule, including a journey to Mexico City to face the tournament hosts, where they battled altitude and overnight fireworks. The Three Lions will meet Norway in Miami for their maiden World Cup quarter-final. Norway, led by Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, advanced as group runners-up behind France after beating Brazil and Ivory Coast.
Solbakken Expects Tight Contest
Solbakken anticipates a closely fought match. "We have to study England but obviously we have seen them in their previous games in the tournament and they will be a very strong opponent but hopefully it will be a very even and tight game," he said.
