Martin Odegaard has heaped praise on Declan Rice ahead of England’s World Cup quarter-final match against Norway on Saturday evening.
Martin Odegaard of Norway speaks during the training and press conference ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 match between Norway and England at Inter Miami CF Stadium on July 08,
Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images
With England set to face Norway in their World Cup quarter-final match on Saturday, Arsenal teammates will face off in international colours.
Arsenal and Norway captain Martin Odegaard will take on England’s Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze, and Declan Rice, and ahead of the game he was asked for his assessment of Rice as a player.
Declan Rice #4 of England participates in an England Training Session during an England World Cup 2026 Camp on July 04, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images
“[Rice] is someone who always gives absolutely everything for the team,” Odegaard said. “Always fighting for every single ball, bringing his energy to the pitch, to the team, driving the team forward. He can do so many things on the pitch.
“He can defend, he can attack, he can be physical, he can be good on the ball, so he’s a very complete player. It’s going to be a good test for all of us, and not just about Declan, but the whole team is unbelievable players.
“It’s a massive test and we’re looking forward to it. Hopefully, we can make even more history.”
Declan Rice #4 of England gestures during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between England and Congo DR at Atlanta Stadium on July 01, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images
The good news for England, Norway, and neutral fans ahead of the game is that both Rice and Odegaard are expected to be available for it. Reports had indicated that both players were suffering with illness during the week, but they’ve shaken off whatever issues they had to take part.
Odegaard is also chasing down the ‘most assists’ award at this World Cup, racking up three so far.
Michael Olise of France leads the standings with five, but an assist and a win for Odegaard on Saturday would put him just one behind the leader with two games to play (a semi-final and either the final or a third-place play-off).
The same is true for Saka on the other side, with the England winger also on three assists. Only one can progress to the next round.
Bukayo Saka #7 of England arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between England and Congo DR at Atlanta Stadium on July 01, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images
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