Manchester City’s superstar will inevitably draw the spotlight, but Norway are determined to prove at the 2026 World Cup that they are far more than a one-man team.

Norway’s history at the World Cup has been modest by any standard.

Having qualified for the finals only three times before 2026, the Scandinavian side have featured less often than Iran, Bulgaria, and Algeria. They have managed just two wins in the tournament’s history and only once advanced beyond the group stage, reaching the round of 16 back in 1998.

After a 28-year wait, Norway are returning to the global stage with renewed ambition – ready to demonstrate that their talent pool extends well beyond their world-famous Manchester City striker.

Yes, we did just emphasise that Norway are not reliant on one player – but it’s impossible to begin without mentioning Erling Haaland.

The 25-year-old’s astonishing scoring record in the Premier League is already legendary, and he has replicated that brilliance for his country, netting 55 goals in just 50 appearances.

Haaland topped Europe’s scoring charts during World Cup qualification, striking 16 times in eight matches – double the tally of his nearest rival – including five goals in an 11-1 demolition of Moldova.

After claiming his third Premier League Golden Boot in four seasons with City, Haaland knows that maintaining his prolific form could be the key to guiding Norway deep into the World Cup tournament.

Of course, Norway’s hopes don’t rest entirely on Haaland’s shoulders. They have quality back-up options in attack if required.

Alexander Sorloth, who had an unremarkable stint at Crystal Palace between 2018 and 2020, has since become a consistent scorer in La Liga, first with Villarreal and now with Atletico Madrid.

At 30, Sorloth’s international record is impressive too – his 26 goals in 72 games place him joint third on Norway’s all-time scoring list.

Continuing the Palace connection, current Eagles striker Jorgen Strand Larsen has also been in fine form, netting six times for his country, including a brace in a 3-1 friendly victory over Sweden earlier this month.

And then there’s Norway’s other Premier League standout – Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, who also wears the armband for his national side. His seven assists in qualifying were the most by any European player.

Odegaard isn’t the only creative spark in the team. Right-back Julian Ryerson contributed 18 assists across all competitions for Borussia Dortmund last season, including four in a single game, showcasing his precision from open play and set-pieces.

On the opposite flank, 21-year-old RB Leipzig winger Antonio Nusa brings flair and unpredictability, his dazzling dribbles earning him the nickname ‘The Norwegian Neymar’ during his youth career.

Beyond these headline names, Norway’s squad features a solid supporting cast of familiar figures.

Fulham’s Oscar Bobb – formerly of Manchester City – impressed with a lively cameo in the recent 1-1 draw against Morocco, while his club teammate Sander Berge is expected to play an important role in central midfield.

Premier League representation continues with Brentford defender Kristoffer Ajer and Wolves left-back David Moller Wolfe, who could anchor half of Norway’s back four. Rangers midfielder Thelo Aasgaard is also in the squad.

Adding to that depth are three players from Bodo/Glimt, the club that reached the Champions League last 16 last season: defender Fredrik Bjorkan, midfielder Patrick Berg, and forward Jens Petter Hauge.

When it comes to form, Norway have every reason to be confident heading into the World Cup.

Under coach Stale Solbakken, they have lost only one of their last 16 matches and swept all eight qualifying games, scoring a European-best 37 goals – with 21 of those not scored by Haaland.

That record sets them up perfectly for their opening Group I match against Iraq, considered the weakest team in the group, on Tuesday, June 16.

A convincing victory in that fixture could virtually secure their spot in the last 32 with two games to spare, boosting their momentum before tougher encounters against Senegal and France.