Norway do not have happy memories of facing the host nation at major tournaments. At the last Euros, they were on the receiving end of the heaviest defeat in the competition’s history, demolished 8-0 by a rampant England. Then, at the last World Cup two years ago, Norway were stunned 1-0 by a plucky New Zealand side, a result that gave way to a disharmonious, chaotic campaign.
So, Norway have plenty to put right when they face hosts Switzerland in Basel on the opening day of Euro 2025. Given the strength of their attacking options, they have spectacularly underperformed on the big stage. But if English coach Gemma Grainger can get Caroline Graham Hansen, Ada Hegerberg, Guro Reiten and Frida Maanum to click into shape, Norway could finally live up to their perennial ‘dark horses’ tag.
