Norway face Austria in a crucial UEFA Nations League clash at the Ullevaal Stadion, Oslo. With both sides coming off disappointing results, this fixture holds added significance for each team's campaign aspirations.
Norway are in need of a positive response after a goalless draw against Kazakhstan, while Austria aim to build on their draw in Slovenia.
Match Preview
Norway
Norway Recent Form
Norway are struggling for form, having managed just one win in their last five matches across all competitions. Their recent 0-0 draw against Kazakhstan highlights a concerning lack of attacking output despite boasting talents like Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard going forward.
Norway Injury News
Norway will be without Manchester City’s Oscar Bobb due to a serious leg injury.
However, key players like Haaland, Odegaard, and Alexander Sorloth are expected to start, with Fulham’s Sander Berge potentially returning to the lineup.
Austria
Austria Recent Form
Austria's performance has been more encouraging, having reached the last 16 of Euro 2024.
They secured a respectable 1-1 draw away to Slovenia last week, extending a run of decent form that includes only three losses in their last 13 competitive matches.
Austria Injury News
Austria will be missing key figures, including captain David Alaba, Kevin Danso, and Michael Gregoritsch, due to injury. Christoph Baumgartner could come into the side, possibly replacing Patrick Wimmer.
Players To Watch
Norway Player To Watch
Erling Haaland remains Norway's talisman and will be pivotal to any success they hope to achieve in the Nations League. After being kept quiet against Kazakhstan, he'll look to find the back of the net here.
Austria Player To Watch
Konrad Laimer, who scored in the last match against Slovenia, will be crucial for Austria in midfield. His ability to control the game and contribute going forward makes him a player to keep an eye on for this one.
Prediction
Austria appear to be in better form heading into this clash, and given Norway's struggles, a narrow 1-0 win for the visitors seems likely.