Martin Odegaard scored during Norway’s 1-1 draw with Morocco; however, the local media were less than impressed by the Arsenal captain’s performance.
Following a 3-1 win over Sweden, Norway’s second World Cup preparation match saw them struggle in the US heat, salvaging a draw with Morocco.
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Odegaard and Norway will need to be at their very best at the World Cup, as they have to face Iraq, Senegal and France in Group I.
Following their final friendly game, the Norwegian media have been assessing the performances of the players and were not too happy with how Odegaard played.
Norwegian media left unimpressed by Martin Odegaard vs Morocco
The Norwegian media have been questioning the performance of the team’s captain, Martin Odegaard, following their 1-1 draw with Morocco.
The Arsenal star did not produce his finest performance for Norway, especially after he gifted Morocco an early chance in the match.
Eventually, Odegaard seemed to grow into the game in the second half; however, he and his teammates will need to be better when they face Iraq in eight days.
The 27-year-old netted the equalising goal for his nation in the 81st minute as he found himself in space inside the penalty area.
Following the draw at the Sports Illustrated Stadium, Norwegian media have been assessing the performance of Odegaard.
- Nettavisen 5/10: “Sent a real gasp through the arena when he served Morocco a giant chance with a terrible cross pass in his own half. Saved his own mistake when he averted a goal with a cry of distress, but seemed worn out for much of the first half. Tried to get deep to get the ball in the Norwegian attacks. Suddenly appeared inside the box and scored a much-awaited national team goal. Great comeback for the national team captain.”
- NRK 6/10: “Important clearance in his own box after just two minutes, but a ‘straight-in-the-shower pass’ gave Morocco the first big chance of the match a few minutes later. He corrected his own mistake by blocking at the last minute. Golden opportunity shortly afterwards, but failed to finish. Should have shot with his right foot. Wandered a lot to get involved with the ball, but wished he could be more patient in the space to get the ball into more dangerous positions. Answered a charge from Stale when he equalised for Norway after 75 minutes. Substituted after 79 minutes. Full-back throughout and with a goal in the bank, a fine start to the World Cup for the captain.”
- Dagbladet 6/10: “He didn’t get out of control, as he usually does. But then he made it 1-1 after a lovely move by Bobb.”
Odegaard became the first Arsenal captain to lift the Premier League title in 22 years this season, but on a personal level, he had quite an underwhelming campaign.
He will be departing for his form to improve at the World Cup this summer as he captains his nation to their first major tournament in 28 years.
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