Norway captain Martin Odegaard has acknowledged his team's underdog status ahead of their FIFA World Cup quarterfinal clash against England in Miami, but stressed that self-belief is crucial in a sport where "anything can happen." The match also marks a reunion for Odegaard with several of his Arsenal teammates, including Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze, with whom he won the Premier League title last season—Arsenal's first in 22 years.
Odegaard Praises England's World-Class Lineup
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated match, Odegaard revealed he has had limited contact with his Arsenal colleagues during the tournament. "Not too much (banter between him and Arsenal teammates from England). I have spoken to a few of them a little bit during the tournament," Odegaard said, as quoted by Reuters. He emphasized the quality of the England side led by Harry Kane: "Obviously, we know the quality they have. I know them really well. Outstanding players, world-class players, playing for probably one of the best national teams in the world at the moment, so it's going to be a big test for us."
Special Praise for Declan Rice
The Arsenal star singled out his club teammate Declan Rice for particular praise, describing him as a player who "gives absolute everything and fights for every single ball" with his energy. "He is someone who always gives absolutely everything for the team, always fighting for every single ball, bringing his energy to the pitch, to the team, driving the team forward," Odegaard said. He added that Rice is a "very complete player" capable of defending, attacking, being physical, and possessing good ball skills. "He can do so many things on the pitch. He can defend, he can attack, he can be physical, he can be good on the ball. He is a very complete player, so it is going to be a good test for all of us," Odegaard added.
Norway's Underdog Spirit After Brazil Win
Norway enters the quarterfinal after a stunning 2-1 victory over five-time champions Brazil in the round of 16, maintaining their unbeaten record against the Carlo Ancelotti-managed side with three wins and two draws. Odegaard drew parallels between that match and the upcoming England clash, noting that they felt like underdogs against Brazil as well. "I think Brazil (in the last 16) was the same, we were the underdogs and, as you saw, anything can happen in football. We are going to give it a good try, see what we can do and are looking forward to it," he said. He urged his team to maintain belief: "We have to have the belief in ourselves. We have shown the whole world that we are a good team. In football, anything is possible. Even though we are the underdogs again, let us see what happens and let us prepare well."
History Within Reach
Odegaard expressed optimism about Norway's chances, stating that the entire England team comprises "unbelievable players" and poses a "massive test" that his side is eager to face. "Hopefully we can make even more history," he added, referring to Norway's potential to advance further in the tournament. The match at Miami is also set to feature Norway's prolific striker Erling Haaland, who will battle Premier League rivals in pursuit of a goal that could spark the iconic 'Viking Row' celebration.
