News Focus
- Sander Tangvik receives shock call-up following Mathias Dyngeland’s injury and Nikita Haikin’s rejected nationality switch
- King Harald V reveals the squad in a historic pre-recorded video announcement
- Orjan Nyland set to start in goal despite limited appearances for Sevilla this season
- Julian Ryerson brings 15 Bundesliga assists to Norway’s campaign
- Norway face tough Group stage fixtures against Iraq, Senegal and France
Ståle Solbakken has named his Norway squad for the country’s first World Cup finals since 1998. The national team coach selected several players from top European leagues for the tournament.
Uncapped goalkeeper Sander Tangvik is the biggest surprise in the group. The 23-year-old recently joined Hamburger SV and saved a penalty on his debut against Bayer Leverkusen. He joins the team after Mathias Dyngeland suffered an injury. FIFA also blocked Nikita Haikin from switching his international allegiance.
Tangvik has a strong record with spot-kicks. He saved five out of eleven penalties during his time in Norway’s Eliteserien.
Julian Ryerson and Antonio Nusa also made the cut from German clubs. Borussia Dortmund defender Ryerson provided 15 assists in the Bundesliga this season. His delivery from wide areas could trouble opponents in the final third.
Nusa enjoyed a solid campaign with RB Leipzig. The German club will compete in next season’s Champions League.
Orjan Nyland is expected to start as the first-choice keeper. The Sevilla stopper has spent most of the season on the bench. He previously played for Ingolstadt and RB Leipzig.
Several players know German football well. Erling Haaland, Leo Ostigard, Morten Thorsby, Alexander Sorloth and Jens Petter Hauge all have past Bundesliga experience.
The Norwegian Football Federation released the news in a special way. King Harald V appeared on video to confirm the selected players.
Norway will face a difficult group stage. They play Iraq, Senegal and France in their opening matches.