Exaggerated reports... Norway's doctor responds

Norway's team doctor has mocked reports that the squad is suffering from a stomach virus ahead of their 2026 World Cup quarter-final against England on Sunday.

Norway qualified for the quarter-finals after eliminating Brazil with a 2-1 win in the Round of 16.

Speaking ahead of the match against England, Norway coach Ståle Solbakken expressed concerns about his team's health due to the extensive travel required throughout the World Cup.

Solbakken said: 'We only had Jørgen (Strand Larsen) who had a fever, but then there was some occasional coughing and rattling here and there.'

He added: 'There's air conditioning, flights, changing rooms, all of that. There are 50 people (in the traveling Norwegian delegation), so it would be strange if nothing came up.'

However, Norway team doctor Ola Sand insists that reports of a virus within the squad are exaggerated.

Sand told Norwegian newspaper Nettavisen: 'All the players are healthy now.'

He added, as reported by English newspaper Metro: 'It wasn't a big deal given that we've been in close quarters for about six weeks.'

When asked about the headlines in the English media regarding a 'virus' spreading among the Norwegian players, Sand replied: 'It's great that they believe this. We have the situation under control.'

The winner of the England vs. Norway clash will face the victor of the Argentina vs. Switzerland match in the World Cup semi-finals.