Erling Haaland’s Norway hit by illness threats before England FIFA World Cup 2026 clash in aftermath of wild partying following Brazil win

Norway’s preparations for their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against England have reportedly been affected by illness within the squad. After their stunning 2-1 victory over Brazil in the Round of 16, several players and staff have dealt with minor sickness symptoms following weeks of heavy travel across the United States.The Scandinavian side created one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by eliminating five-time world champions Brazil. Erling Haaland scored both goals in the famous victory as Norway reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time. However, reports now suggest fatigue and illness have become fresh challenges as they prepare to face England.

Norway battle illness and travel fatigue before England quarter-final

Norway celebrated one of the greatest victories in the country’s football history after defeating Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16.

The players marked the memorable win with their famous “Viking Row” celebration alongside thousands of supporters inside MetLife Stadium. The dressing room was filled with emotion as head coach Stale Solbakken praised his squad for producing a historic performance.

During his post-match speech, Solbakken congratulated the players for following the tactical plan perfectly. He praised the team’s discipline and highlighted that Norway had delivered match-winning performances at both ends of the pitch.

The coach also encouraged his players to enjoy the special occasion after securing a famous place in the last eight.While celebrations continued, fresh concerns soon emerged over the squad’s fitness. According to reports from Norway, illness has affected several members of the travelling group following weeks of constant travel across North America.Norway have covered thousands of miles since arriving for the tournament.

Their schedule has included trips between Boston, New Jersey and Dallas before returning to New Jersey for the victory over Brazil. The repeated flights, changing weather conditions and busy travel schedule are believed to have increased physical fatigue within the squad.Crystal Palace striker Jorgen Strand Larsen missed Norway’s opening match after developing a fever earlier in the tournament. Defender Marcus Holmgren Pedersen was also unavailable for the Brazil game because of illness.

Solbakken himself was seen coughing during a recent media appearance, raising further questions about the health of the group.Speaking about the situation, the Norway manager explained that only one player had suffered with a high temperature, while a few others experienced mild coughs and cold-like symptoms. He suggested that constant air conditioning, regular flights and the demands of travelling with a large squad made such issues almost unavoidable during a long tournament.Despite the illness concerns, Norway are expected to have several days to recover before facing England. The team will travel from its training base in Greensboro, North Carolina, to Miami, giving the players valuable time to rest and prepare.Norway have already exceeded expectations by reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in their history. They now face one of their toughest tests against an England side that defeated Mexico 3-2 to book its place in the last eight.