Norway beat Sweden 3-1 at Ullevaal Stadium on Monday without stars Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, extending their strong run of form.
The victory was particularly encouraging for Norway as they managed it without key stars Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard.
The home side took control from the opening minutes and needed only nine minutes to find the breakthrough. Jorgen Strand Larsen finished confidently after being picked out by Julian Ryerson, giving Norway an early lead and setting the tone for the evening.
Norway continued to dominate and doubled their advantage before the 20-minute mark. Antonio Nusa was the star of the show, cutting inside from the wing before firing a powerful effort beyond goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom. The RB Leipzig winger caused constant problems for Sweden’s defence throughout the match with his pace, skill and direct running.
Sweden struggled to contain the hosts and were fortunate not to fall further behind before half-time. Zetterstrom produced an excellent save to deny Strand Larsen, but Norway eventually added a third goal when the striker headed home from a Ryerson corner.
Nusa’s performance was so effective that there were concerns within the Norwegian camp that frustrated Swedish defenders might react with overly aggressive challenges. After the match, the winger revealed he had been warned to be careful.
“I got a little scared. They told me to be a little careful. I have to take care in the next match,” Nusa said.
Sweden improved briefly after the break and created a few opportunities, but Norway remained the stronger side. The visitors eventually found a goal through Alexander Isak, whose excellent individual effort offered a late consolation.
Norway coach Stale Solbakken was pleased with what he saw from his players.
“There was a big difference between the teams for a very long period in the game,” he said.
Solbakken admitted his side were not always clinical in front of goal but was delighted with the overall display.
“We were a bit sloppy and not very effective during the match. But I’m not going to complain,” he added.
The result provides valuable momentum before their final World Cup warm-up match against Morocco on Sunday.
For Sweden and coach Graham Potter, concerns remain after another disappointing defensive performance. They will hope to respond when they face Greece on Thursday before beginning their World Cup campaign.
In the World Cup, Norway are in Group I alongside France, Senegal and Iraq. Sweden have been drawn in Group F with the Netherlands, Japan and Tunisia.
