Norway Grapples with Illness Ahead of England Quarter-Final

The Norwegian national team is battling a virus outbreak within its camp ahead of their crucial quarter-final clash, according to local newspaper "Dagbladet." Media reports suggest that fatigue and illness have disrupted Norway's preparations for the upcoming match against England. Having traveled thousands of kilometers throughout the tournament, there are speculations that the constant movement has taken a toll on the players' health. The squad has already faced several instances of illness on their journey to this stage of the competition.

Crystal Palace forward Jørgen Strand Larsen missed the opening World Cup match due to illness. Subsequently, Marcus Holmgren Pedersen was absent from the knockout game against Brazil, also due to a virus.

Head coach Ståle Solbakken was observed coughing during the press conference following Norway's 4-1 defeat to France. He himself expressed his concerns.

"Actually, only Jørgen had a fever," he stated. "But then there was a bit of coughing and hoarseness spread throughout the squad." "However, there are air conditioners, flights, changing rooms, and everything else. We are over 50 people, so it would be strange if no one got sick," Solbakken added.

Despite this, the coach attempted to alleviate worries regarding Pedersen's absence against Brazil. He believes the player's issues stemmed from an unexpected workload.

"I think, without being a doctor, that it's a combination of the fact that the boy is young, came to the World Cup, and probably thought: 'I'll be Julian [Ryerson]'s backup.' He played two matches and performed brilliantly, accumulated a lot of impressions, his head is full, his body is full of impressions, and his system is slightly crashing."