Norway have been hit by a wave of illness and travel fatigue ahead of their first-ever World Cup quarter-final against England in Miami, with manager Ståle Solbakken admitting concerns that players have been struck down by sickness. The Scandinavian side, led by Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, secured their place in the last eight with a commanding victory over Brazil, but their preparations have been hampered by a bug that has affected several squad members.
Travel Fatigue Takes Its Toll
According to Norwegian publication Dagbladet, the constant travel during the tournament has taken a toll on the squad. Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, Norway have shuttled between Boston, New Jersey and Dallas, covering thousands of miles. This has contributed to episodes of illness that have plagued the team throughout the competition.
Crystal Palace striker Jorgen Strand Larsen was ruled out of the opening World Cup fixture through illness, while Marcus Holmgren Pedersen was subsequently unavailable for the knockout encounter against Brazil due to a bug. Solbakken himself was seen coughing during the press conference after Norway's 4-1 loss to France.
Solbakken's Concerns
Solbakken expressed his worries about the situation, stating: "We've really only had Jorgen who has had a fever. 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."
However, he sought to ease concerns regarding Pedersen's absence against Brazil, attributing it to a different issue. "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 also faced a gruelling travel schedule, with their journey to Mexico City to meet the tournament hosts presenting the greatest challenge. The Three Lions had to battle altitude and supporters firing fireworks throughout the night before their encounter. Despite these obstacles, England advanced to the quarter-finals, setting up a clash with Norway.
Solbakken Optimistic for Close Contest
Despite the setbacks, Solbakken remains optimistic about a closely-fought contest between the two sides vying for a place in the final four. He said: "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."
Norway will enter their maiden World Cup quarter-final when they take on England in Miami this weekend. The team, spearheaded by Manchester City star Erling Haaland and Arsenal's Martin Odegaard, saw off Brazil and Ivory Coast after progressing from their group as runners-up to France.
