Martin Odegaard: Norwegian media say the same thing about Arsenal star's display vs Brazil

Norway’s media have been quick to heap praise on Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard after he played a key role in their 2-1 win over Brazil on Sunday.

The Scandinavian nation progressed into the quarter-finals as Erling Haaland netted two superb goals at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

Many of Norway’s stars put in excellent shifts, including Odegaard, whose presence in the middle of the pitch proved to be fundamental to the shock win.

His control over the centre of the pitch towards the end of the game has earned the admiration of Norway’s media, who described the 27-year-old as “fearless”.

Odegaard has played in four matches so far in the World Cup and has picked up three assists in what has been a highly memorable tournament to date.

Now, his performances have helped set up a mouthwatering tie against England in the quarter-finals on Saturday.

Martin Odegaard stepped up at the end vs Brazil

While Norway were never ruled out of the tie against Brazil going into the match, their victory was certainly a shock.

The tournament is only the Scandinavian nation’s first World Cup since 1998, and the last time they qualified for the Euros was in 2002.

Yet, this did not faze the players on the pitch, and Odegaard proved to be key at pushing Norway forward against Brazil.

Upon reviewing his performance, Nettavisen gave the attacking midfielder a seven rating, before they wrote: “Extremely fearless. Was a major driving force behind what Norway did offensively, despite committing several bad fouls before half-time, one of which ended in a penalty kick. 

“Could, and should, have been awarded a free kick, but took too many risks on the way forward. 

“Had a huge chance, but a crazy save by Alisson prevented a goal. 

“Far too bold just before half-time when he tried to turn away Vini Jr. in his own half, but failed. Can thank Orjan Nyland for the Brazilians not going into half-time with the lead. 

“Another missed pass that ended with the counterattack that sent Endrick through alone after the break, but rose dramatically towards the end. 

“Huge contributor to Norway taking control of the match. Great detail in overtime when he got a Norwegian free kick in a good position, and that made Neymar furious. Great!”

How good was Odegaard vs Brazil?

If Mikel Arteta was watching Odegaard on Sunday, he would have loved what he saw.

According to Fotmob on 6 July, the 27-year-old completed 101 passes, created one chance, had two shots, had seven touches in the opposition box, completed one dribble, won two ground duels and even won a foul.

On top of this, his leadership would have been key in the final moments of the match as Norway saw out perhaps their greatest victory of all time.

However, many Arsenal fans will now be hopeful that such a performance will not be repeated on Saturday when Norway face England at Miami Stadium.

Kick-off is at 10pm, with the winner set to play one of Switzerland, Colombia, Egypt or Argentina in the semi-finals.