World Cup grind beginning to take its toll on Norway squad, says coach

Norway's World Cup campaign is facing an unexpected challenge as coach Stale Solbakken revealed that several players are experiencing illness ahead of their crucial quarter-final match against England. The demanding schedule of travel, training, and high-stakes games is beginning to affect the squad's well-being.

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We've really only had Jorgen who has had a fever, but then there's been a bit of coughing and rasping scattered throughout.

Striker Jorgen Strand Larsen has been particularly affected, suffering from a fever. Solbakken noted that other players have also reported symptoms such as coughing and respiratory discomfort. "But there's air conditioning, flights, changing rooms and all that," Solbakken commented, suggesting a combination of environmental factors and the intense tournament atmosphere could be contributing to the widespread health issues within the traveling party of 50 people.

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But there's air conditioning, flights, changing rooms and all that.

Defender Marcus Holmgren Pedersen was notably absent from Norway's round of 16 victory over Brazil due to illness. While Solbakken acknowledged that the pressure of the World Cup environment might have played a role, he also speculated on the psychological impact on the young player. "I think, without being a doctor, that it's a combination of the boy being young, he's come to the World Cup and thought, 'I'm going to be a backup for Julian (Ryerson)', he's had two games and played great," Solbakken explained. "He's got a lot of stimulation, his head is full, his body is full of impressions, and then the system collapses a bit."

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There's 50 people (in Norway's travelling party), so it would be strange if something or other didn't crop up.