German football legend Jürgen Klinsmann believes the Norway national team is far more than just Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard. According to him, Norway’s remarkable run to the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals is the result of the team’s squad depth and steady long-term development.
Klinsmann said Ståle Solbakken’s side possesses quality across every area of the pitch, enabling them to compete with the world’s traditional football powerhouses.
“It’s not just about Erling Haaland or Martin Ødegaard—it goes far beyond that. They have tremendous squad depth and come from a country with a strong determination to keep improving,” Klinsmann said, as quoted by the official FIFA website on Thursday.
Norway Make History at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks Norway’s fourth appearance in the tournament. Before this edition, their best performances had been reaching the Round of 16 at the 1938 and 1998 World Cups.
This time, however, The Lions (Løvene) have surpassed that achievement by advancing to the quarter-finals after defeating Brazil 2-1.
Erling Haaland starred in the victory by scoring both goals.
The brace also took Haaland’s tally to seven goals, placing him second in the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot. He trails Lionel Messi by one goal after the Argentine captain inspired Argentina to a dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt in the Round of 16.
Norway will next face England in the quarter-finals on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at 4:00 a.m. WIB (Western Indonesia Time) at Miami Stadium in the United States.
Klinsmann said Norway’s progress reminds him of Croatia’s rise during the 1990s.
“Norway is developing into a team that reminds me somewhat of Croatia in the 1990s. They possess tremendous spirit, talent, and quality. Over the next 10 to 15 years, they have the potential to establish themselves as a global football powerhouse, much like Croatia has today,” said the 61-year-old coach.***
