A. Sørloth

Norway arrive at the 2026 World Cup with the rare buzz of a nation returning to the biggest stage, and head coach Stale Solbakken has now confirmed his squad for the tournament across the United States, Mexico and Canada. The excitement is built largely around a generational attacking core, even if expectations must be tempered: our AI model gives Norway a 0.0% chance of lifting the trophy, with reaching the final and the semi-finals both also rated at 0.0%. This is a side that thrives on individual brilliance more than systemic favoritism.

The headline name is Erling Haaland, whose 27 goals and 8 assists for Manchester City at a 7.31 rating make him one of the most feared finishers on the planet. Around him, Patrick Berg has been outstanding at Bodo/Glimt with a 7.89 rating, 5 goals and a creative 12 assists, while Julian Ryerson offers width and service from Borussia Dortmund, chipping in 15 assists. Atletico Madrid's Alexander Sørloth gives Solbakken a second imposing striking option with 13 goals, though his 0 assists and 6.81 rating hint at a more isolated finishing role.

Drawn into Group I, Norway will rely on Haaland's clinical edge to navigate the early rounds and ideally reach the knockouts. Realistically, the depth and balance behind the stars suggest a ceiling around the group stage or an early elimination. A spirited campaign powered by moments of magic is the sensible verdict.