Norway Names Ødegaard Captain, Adds Uncapped Tangvik to World Cup Squad

King Harald V revealed Norway’s squad for the expanded 48‑team FIFA World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, through a pre‑recorded video. The announcement came after Mathias Dyngeland withdrew due to injury, opening a spot for the 22‑year‑old Hamburger SV goalkeeper Sander Tangvik, who had not previously earned a senior cap. Norway appointed Arsenal midfielder Martin Ødegaard, who recently helped his club secure the Premier League title, to lead the side that includes attacking stars Erling Haaland, Oscar Bobb and Jørgen Strand Larsen.

- Ødegaard becomes the first Arsenal captain to also wear the armband for Norway at a World Cup. - Tangvik’s call‑up makes him the only uncapped player in the 26‑man roster; the next uncapped candidate, former Russia Under‑21 goalkeeper Nikita Haikin, could not complete his nationality switch in time. - Sondre Langås, a Derby County defender, told NRK he did not believe the selection was genuine until the King’s video finished, highlighting the unusual delivery method. - Norway opens its campaign against Iraq in Boston on June 16, then faces Senegal and France in the group stage.

The leadership choice signals Norway’s intent to rely on Ødegaard’s experience in high‑pressure leagues, potentially stabilizing a squad rich in offensive talent. Tangvik’s inclusion provides a fresh option between the posts, though his lack of senior caps may test his readiness against elite opponents.