7M - Friendly Internationals Preview: Norway vs Sweden - prediction, team news, lineups

Match Preview: Rebuilding Momentum Ahead of the Big Stage

Norway and Sweden are gearing up for a high-stakes Nordic derby at the Ullevaal Stadion this Monday, with both nations using the clash to fine-tune their squads ahead of the 2026 World Cup. With only two friendly matches remaining for each side before soccer's showpiece tournament kicks off next month, this fixture provides a crucial platform for managers to iron out tactical wrinkles.

The home side head into this encounter following an exceptional World Cup qualification campaign where they topped their group with a perfect record of eight wins from eight matches, netting a staggering 37 goals along the way. While Stale Solbakken's side underwhelmed in their March friendlies—suffering a 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands before a goalless draw with Switzerland—their overall form remains incredibly strong, with just two losses in their last 18 matches. Furthermore, Norway boast a formidable home record, remaining unbeaten in their last 12 matches in front of their own fans, and they currently hold a six-match unbeaten streak against their Swedish neighbors.

Sweden, meanwhile, cross the border on the back of immense positivity. A thrilling 3-2 victory over Poland in late March secured their ticket to the upcoming World Cup, providing a perfect start to Graham Potter's tenure. Since taking over in October 2025, the English tactician is unbeaten in his last three outings. While the Blue and Yellow have looked potent going forward, scoring seven times in that brief period, defensive frailties remain a concern, having leaked four goals. Potter will also be desperate to correct Sweden's erratic away form, as they have struggled for consistency on their travels despite a recent 3-1 win in Ukraine.

Team News and Strategic Lineups

Norway's star striker Erling Haaland is fully expected to spearhead the attack in what will be a landmark 50th international appearance for his country, with the Manchester City ace hunting for his 56th international goal. He is likely to be flanked by the exciting young duo of Oscar Bobb and Antonio Nusa. In midfield, Fulham's Sander Berge is set to sit in the anchoring role, shielding a central defensive partnership of Kristoffer Ajer and Leo Ostigard.

For the visitors, Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak is expected to feature despite managing fitness issues towards the end of the grueling Premier League campaign. Since he is free from injury, Potter will be keen to get crucial minutes into the striker's legs. Elsewhere, Jesper Karlstrom and Yasin Ayari are tipped to partner up in the engine room, providing protection to a expected back three of Victor Lindelof, Carl Starfelt, and Gustaf Lagerbielke.

Predicted Starting Lineups

Norway Potential Starting XI: Nyland; Pedersen, Ajer, Ostigard, Bjorkan; Thorstvedt, Berge, Thorsby; Bobb, Haaland, Nusa

Sweden Potential Starting XI: Nordfeldt; Lagerbielke, Starfelt, Lindelof; Svensson, Ayari, Karlstrom, Gudmundsson; Elanga, Nygren; Isak

Match Prediction

Norway 2-1 Sweden

It is incredibly difficult to bet against Norway when they play on home soil, given their phenomenal 12-match unbeaten streak at the Ullevaal Stadion. With Erling Haaland in clinical form on the international stage, the hosts should have the cutting edge in the final third. While Alexander Isak poses a genuine threat for Sweden, he may not be fit enough to influence the game for the full 90 minutes, allowing Norway to edge a tight contest.