Norway football team gears up for World Cup with US outings and expert analysis

Former international midfielder Erik “Myggen” Mykland and veteran commentator Bernt Hulsker reunited at Kristiansand’s Sparebank Norge Arena, where they demonstrated the historic “Start‑vippen” technique. Both were appointed as Dagbladet experts ahead of Norway’s first World Cup appearance in 28 years, with the squad set to face Iraq in their opening match.

At the same time, current stars Erling Braut Haaland, Leo Skiri Østigaard and several teammates attended the Stanley Cup final in Raleigh, North Carolina, as part of a team‑building visit to the United States. Coach Ståle Solbakken emphasized a “freedom under responsibility” policy during the US tour, which also includes training in Greensboro before the team’s next fixture against Iraq in Massachusetts.

Both events highlight Norway’s preparation for the upcoming World Cup, blending veteran insight with player experiences abroad.