England could not have asked for better news before their World Cup 2026 quarter-final: opponents Norway are battling a flu outbreak, with several players feverish and coughing. Fresh from an Erling Haaland double that dumped Brazil out, Norway now face a second battle — against a virus sweeping their camp.
Larsen feverish, Pedersen missed the Brazil game
Several Norway regulars are showing flu-like symptoms. Striker Jørgen Strand Larsen missed a training session with a fever, while defender Marcus Holmgren Pedersen sat out the last-16 win over Brazil feeling unwell.
A group-stage scorer, Pedersen is a versatile full-back whose absence thins Norway’s squad depth. Fever, coughing and sore throats have spread through a travelling party of more than 50 people.
Solbakken blames the gruelling schedule
Head coach Ståle Solbakken, himself coughing badly at his press conference, put the illness down to the relentless travel: frequent flights, long journeys and constant changes of host city.
“With more than 50 people travelling together, it would be strange if nobody got ill,” he said. Norway have played in Boston, New Jersey and Dallas, a schedule that has worn down immune systems. On Pedersen, Solbakken also pointed to mental pressure.
Haaland’s double and three days to recover
Norway reached the quarters thanks to Erling Haaland, who struck twice inside ten second-half minutes to beat Brazil 2-1 and knock out one of the favourites.
The good news for Norway is that they have three full days to recover before facing England in Miami. Whether Solbakken can get his key men fit in time may decide whether the Three Lions cruise through or face a fully loaded Haaland.
FAQ
What is happening with Norway before the quarter-final?
A flu outbreak has hit the Norway camp, with several players feverish and coughing before their quarter-final against England.
Which Norway players are affected?
Striker Jørgen Strand Larsen missed training with a fever and defender Marcus Holmgren Pedersen sat out the last-16 game against Brazil.
How did Norway reach the quarter-finals?
Erling Haaland scored twice inside ten second-half minutes as Norway beat Brazil 2-1 in the last 16.
Do Norway have time to recover?
Yes, Norway have three full days to recover before facing England in Miami.
Is Haaland affected by the flu?
The main players affected are Larsen and Pedersen. Haaland remains the focal point of the Norway attack.
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