Stale Solbakken, the coach of Norway, announced today the players called up for the friendly matches against the Netherlands (March 27) and Switzerland (March 31), which includes Andreas Schjelderup, a 21-year-old winger from Benfica. The winger had already been part of the squad in previous matches in November against Estonia and Italy, solidifying his place in the national team. Aursnes is left out due to injury, after having accepted to return to the national team options following a two-year absence. Despite being unable to attend the call-up this month, the Benfica midfielder received good news from Solbakken: if nothing unusual happens, he will be at the World Cup. "The competition in various positions is strong. Today there will be disappointed players, as they have been with us for some time. But this fight for a spot will continue until we choose the final list for the World Cup. Some come in, others go out, that's how it works. And we know we have Odegaard and Aursnes as reserves. If nothing happens, both will be guaranteed for the World Cup," stated the coach. Aursnes' last game for Norway was on November 19, 2023, in a 3-3 draw against Scotland during the Euro 2024 qualifiers, which Norway failed to qualify for. Norway has qualified directly for the 2026 World Cup. They will face Senegal and France in Group I, and are still waiting to find out if they will compete against Iraq, Bolivia, or Suriname in the opening match.
Confirms Aursnes Andreas Schjelderup remains central to this story.
Confirms Aursnes Andreas Schjelderup remains central to this story.
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