Secret team friction undermining Norway's World Cup 'boys' trip' vibe

Norway’s World Cup “boys trip” vibe is being strained by behind-the-scenes friction ahead of the quarter-final with England. In Norway’s 2-1 win over Brazil, Erling Haaland scored twice and Alexander Sørloth—used out of position to accommodate Haaland—was substituted at half-time, drawing visible frustration. Sørloth’s father, Goran, told Dagbladet that his son was “irritated” by the decision, adding that Alexander should “be every day all year round.” Sørloth later said he was “angry” with manager Ståle Solbakken but that they are now “good friends.” Solbakken defended the changes, saying none of the players “played a bad game.” Norway also face a sickness bug affecting the squad, with goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland confirming issues and hoping for a fully rested group on Saturday.