Norway's national team switched hotels in Fort Lauderdale after just one night ahead of their historic World Cup quarter-final against England. The decision was made due to concerns over hygiene, persistent noise, and nearby road construction.
The team management found conditions at the original hotel unsuitable for optimal preparation. FIFA understood the players' request and quickly arranged new accommodation, covering most of the relocation costs. "FIFA understood our request," said Erling Haaland. "The move was chaotic, but now everyone is happy."
Manager Ståle Solbakken also dismissed rumours of illness in the squad. "It has only affected our manual therapist, Thomas Ødegaard," Solbakken stated. "The story has been greatly exaggerated. We have enough physiotherapists in the squad to handle the situation."
This marks the first time Norway has reached the quarter-finals of a World Cup. Their victory over Brazil in the round of 16, where Haaland scored a brace, paved the way. A win over England would send the team to its first-ever semi-final and cement this generation as Norway's greatest.
"It's the biggest match in our history, and we need to be at 100 percent," said Erling Haaland. The attack is also supported by Martin Ødegaard in midfield, along with the pace and movement of Antonio Nusa and Jørgen Strand Larsen. The defence has shown disciplined organisation.
Norway currently sit second in the World Cup with six points from three games, three points behind leaders France. In their last meeting with England, Norway lost 1-2 on 11 July.
Following their historic World Cup run, Norway now face a key match against Denmark at home on 24 September. See the full squad and upcoming fixtures on our pages. Haaland leads Norway's scoring charts with seven goals in five appearances this season.
The original report is at beinsports.com
