Norway captain Martin Odegaard says friendships will be put aside when his team face England in the World Cup quarter-finals, as the Arsenal midfielder backs his team to build on their historic victory over Brazil.
Norway captain Martin Odegaard insists there will be little room for friendly exchanges when his side face England in Saturday's FIFA World Cup quarter-final, despite preparing to take on several of his Arsenal teammates on football's biggest stage.
The Arsenal skipper will line up against Premier League-winning teammates Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze in Miami as Norway attempt to follow up their stunning Round of 16 victory over five-time champions Brazil with another major upset.
Image Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectWhile acknowledging the close relationships he shares with England's players, Odegaard revealed the focus remains firmly on Norway's biggest match in World Cup history.
"Not too much (banter)," Odegaard said with a smile when asked about conversations with his Arsenal teammates.
"I've spoken to a few of them a little bit during the tournament."
The Norwegian captain knows exactly what awaits his side against an England team that many regard as one of the favourites to lift the trophy.
"Obviously we know the quality they have. I know them really well," he said.
"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."
Image Credit: Reuters One of the defining contests could come in midfield, where Odegaard is set to face Arsenal teammate Declan Rice.
The Norway captain was full of admiration for the England midfielder, describing him as one of the most complete players in world football.
"He's 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 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's a very complete player, so it's going to be a good test for all of us."
However, Odegaard stressed England's threat extends well beyond Rice.
"And it's not just about Declan, but the whole team has unbelievable players," he added.
"It's a massive test and we're looking forward to it. Hopefully we can make even more history."
Image Credit: Reuters Norway arrive in the quarter-finals riding the momentum of one of the biggest results in their footballing history after eliminating Brazil 2-1, with Erling Haaland scoring both goals.
That victory has strengthened belief within the squad that another surprise is possible, even if they once again enter the match as underdogs.
"I think Brazil was the same, we were the underdogs and, as you saw, anything can happen in football," Odegaard said.
"We're going to give it a good try, see what we can do and are looking forward to it."
The midfielder believes Norway have already shown they belong among the world's elite and says confidence, rather than fear, will define their approach against England.
"We have to have the belief in ourselves," he said.
"We've shown the whole world that we're a good team. In football, anything is possible. Even though we're the underdogs again, let's see what happens and let's prepare well."
