Norway’s final major test before the World Cup could hardly have gone much better.

Ståle Solbakken’s side defeated Sweden 3–1 at Ullevaal Stadium on Saturday night, producing an impressive performance that showcased both attacking quality and squad depth ahead of the tournament.

What made the result particularly encouraging was who was missing.

Neither Erling Haaland nor Martin Ødegaard featured, yet Norway still looked confident, organized and dangerous throughout much of the evening.

Jørgen Strand Larsen was the standout performer, scoring twice as Norway raced into an early lead. Antonio Nusa continued his impressive form by adding another goal and causing constant problems for Sweden’s defense with his pace and direct running.

By halftime, Norway had established a commanding advantage and looked in complete control.

Sweden improved after the break and pulled one goal back through Alexander Isak, but the result rarely appeared in doubt.

For Solbakken, the performance provided valuable evidence that Norway can rely on more than its biggest stars.

Depth often determines how far teams progress in major tournaments. Injuries, suspensions and fatigue become unavoidable realities during a World Cup. Norway’s ability to perform without Haaland and Ødegaard will be viewed as one of the night’s most positive developments.

The match also reflected a growing confidence within the squad.

The players moved the ball quickly, pressed aggressively and played with a belief that has become increasingly visible during the past year. There was an energy about the team that suggested a group eager for the challenge ahead.

Of course, Sweden is not the World Cup.

The opposition Norway will face in the tournament will present a different level of difficulty.

Yet football is often about momentum, and Norway appears to be building it at precisely the right time.

For 28 years, Norwegian supporters waited to see their country return to football’s biggest stage.

Tonight’s victory does not guarantee success when the World Cup begins.

But it does reinforce a growing feeling across the country.

Norway is not travelling to the tournament simply to participate.

Norway believes it can compete.

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