Norway vs Spain | Sunday 15 Otober | Ullevaal Stadium | 20:45
The stage is set for yet another exciting match-up as host’s Norway go head-to-head with two-time champions Spain. The Norwegians have failed to get the better of the Spanish on many occasions but having home ground advantage could play a major part in picking up maximum points for the Lions.
To Win (90 mins)
Norway 34/10
Draw 43/20
Spain 8/10
Norway
It has never gone according to plan whenever Norway meet with Spain as history has shown but there is something special about this Norwegian side that gives off the feeling that they will not be intimidated but rather come out with a point to prove.
Norway have been a team that have been improving every time they step out onto the pitch and is no surprise to see the Lions competing at the highest level of international football. There is no greater feeling than playing for your country and with home ground advantage the Norwegians could use the energy and passion from their fans to boost their performance and attack with purpose.
Coach Stale Solbakken will motivate his players as the stakes are high for Norway and will need a combination of tactical prowess, individual brilliance, and defensive resilience to achieve their ambitions of defeating Spain and potentially making out of the group stages for the first time in the country’s history.
Erling Haaland’s ability to score goals out of seemingly nothing makes him a vital asset for Norway, and he will be expected to lead the charge in their quest for victory. Martin Odegaard’s role in orchestrating the midfield and creating scoring opportunities will be crucial as well, especially in setting up Haaland to capitalize on chances.
Defensively, Norway will need to be disciplined and organized to counter Spain’s quality players, who are capable of making an impact at any moment. A solid defensive performance could be the key to their success, as they look to secure a much-needed win over Spain after losing their previous meeting 3-0.
Spain
Spain is a prominent footballing nation with a rich history and a strong tradition of possessing exceptional talent. Their style of play often revolves around ball possession, known as “tiki-taka,” and they have had great success with this approach, including winning the FIFA World Cup in 2010 and the UEFA European Championship in 2008 and 2012.
Playing away from home can indeed be challenging but knowing the quality Spain possess they will be ready and prepared for the challenge. Their confidence is undoubtedly boosted by their recent performances and results as they have been finding the back of the net for fun in recent matches. Spain’s approach to the match, with a blend of young and energetic players along with experienced ones, seems to be a well-balanced strategy. This combination can often bring stability and creativity to the team.
La Roja have a host of talented players to choose from which makes them a formidable opponent to face. Winning the midfield battle is crucial for Spain because it allows them to control the tempo of the game and dictate play. Their ability to maintain possession and move the ball effectively has been a hallmark of their success over the years. Rodri, Gavi, Dani Olmo and Nico Williams are the players to look out for as they have the ability to kill off any team if given the space and time to do so.
The attacking department for the Spanish team is not one to be taken lightly especially when they have the in-form Alvaro Morata, Ferran Torres, Marco Asensio, Ansu Fati, and the new boy on the block Lamine Yamal. Luis de la Fuente will need his players to bring their A-game on the day and having a strong track record against Norway will give an extra boost of confidence to go all out for the win.
Prediction
Football is a dynamic sport, and anything can happen on the day. Both nations have quality teams and will come down to fine margins in getting a winner. I see Spain coming away with a narrow victory in this one purely because they have the better side.
Written by Marc Strydom