Norway consider Morocco friendly as Solbakken seeks final World Cup test

Norway head coach Ståle Solbakken has revealed plans for a potential friendly against Morocco national team as part of his side’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup, a move that has already sparked discussion.

The Scandinavian side, who are set to face Sweden at the Olival Stadium, are now considering a further test against Morocco on 7 June.

The proposed fixture would come just before their departure for the World Cup finals in the United States, serving as a final measure of readiness.

Solbakken’s interest in the North African side is deliberate.

Morocco, who reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, are regarded as one of the strongest teams outside Europe and South America.

For Norway, the match would offer a demanding examination against technically accomplished and tactically disciplined opponents.

The coach is keen to assess his leading players, including Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, in a high-level contest.

Facing a team of Morocco’s calibre would provide a clearer indication of Norway’s ability to compete against elite international opposition.

If confirmed, the encounter is expected to attract significant attention from supporters of both nations.

For Morocco, it would represent another opportunity to reinforce its growing reputation on the global stage following its recent World Cup success.

For Norway, meanwhile, the fixture would act as a final checkpoint before embarking on their World Cup campaign.

It would allow the coaching staff to evaluate tactical approaches and player performances in a competitive environment closely resembling tournament conditions.

With preparations intensifying ahead of 2026, the proposed meeting at Olival Stadium could prove pivotal for both teams.

It offers Norway a chance to validate its ambitions on the international stage, while Morocco would aim to maintain its standing among the world’s leading football nations.