Martin Odegaard dubbed ‘devastating’ by national media after what he just did for Norway

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To say that Martin Odegaard had a night to remember on international duty would be an understatement.

It’s not been an easy year for the Arsenal captain, whose form has been questionable since his ankle injury sustained on international duty in August 2024. 

In addition to battling fluctuating form, Odegaard has faced criticism regarding his captaincy, with club legend Tony Adams having a lot to say. 

There’s arguably no player in the Arsenal squad that Mikel Arteta trusts more, and for good reason, given just how good the Norwegian can be when at his best. 

And on Tuesday night, Odegaard showed just that for Norway. 

• READ MORE: Martin Odegaard says that he ‘doesn’t care’ about criticism amid poor form

Martin Odegaard shines for Norway in 11-1 win over Moldova

Going into the international break, there was concern about Odegaard’s shoulder injury, but it’s clear to see that the playmaker is as fit as ever. 

In a World Cup Qualifying match, Norway dismantled Moldova in a 12-goal showing in front of a home crowd, winning 11-1.

Odegaard was at the heart of the resounding victory, recording two assists and getting himself on the scoresheet.

It came as no surprise to see Norwegian media praise the Arsenal captain extremely highly post-match.

NRK lauded how the attacking midfielder ‘took control of the game from the first second’, handing him a 9/10 rating, which was even a little harsh. 

Drammens Tidende, on the other hand, compiled an article just about Odegaard, calling the 26-year-old ‘devastating’. 

The outlet echoed that the playmaker was ‘very central to most of what happened’, which, when looking at his numbers from the match, couldn’t have been more true.

Odegaard’s stats for Norway against Moldova

Seeing an 11-1 win mostly attributed to Odegaard will be music to Arteta’s ears.

Pep Guardiola will also be ecstatic, as Erling Haaland scored five goals and assisted two, a standard night for the Manchester City talisman. 

Creatively, though, it was all about Odegaard. 

Wherever the ball was, Odegaard was, recording 135 touches, eight key passes and firing a magnificent seven shots on goal. 

It was a night to remember for the skipper and his country, showing form over the international break that he’ll hope to bring to the Emirates.