Benfica star set for World Cup debut, fitness permitting | OneFootball

Although he was not called up for Norway’s preparation matches against the Netherlands (March 27) and Switzerland (March 31), Fredrik Aursnes, Benfica’s midfielder, will be present at the World Cup, assured coach Stale Solbakken.

The Norwegian coach explained that competition is strong in several positions, which leads to temporary disappointments: “There is strong competition in several positions. 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 that we have Odegaard and Aursnes as reserves. If nothing happens, both are guaranteed to be at the World Cup.”

The footballer had expressed his willingness to return to the national team after a two-year absence, having even been awarded Footballer of the Year at Benfica’s gala. However, a muscle injury in his left thigh prevents him from participating in the preparation matches.

Norway secured direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup and will compete in Group I against Senegal and France, still awaiting the outcome of the intercontinental playoff that will determine their third opponent between Iraq, Bolivia, or Suriname.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.