Odegaard avoids provoking Arsenal teammates before catching England

Norway captain Martin Odegaard stated that he has avoided the traditional provocations with his Arsenal teammates ahead of the clash against England, in the quarter-finals of the World Cup, scheduled for Saturday (11), in Miami.

In addition to leading the Norwegian national team, Odegaard will face club colleagues Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, Premier League champions with Arsenal.

"Not many (jokes). I spoke a little with some of them during the tournament. Obviously I know very well the quality they have. They are extraordinary players, world class, and they play for one of the best teams in the world at the moment. It will be a big test for us", said the midfielder, smiling, at a press conference.

Odegaard gave special praise to Declan Rice, a key player in the English midfield who is expected to star in one of the main duels of the match.

"He is a player who always gives everything for the team, fights for every ball, brings energy to the team and makes the group grow. He can do many things on the field. He defends, attacks, is physically strong, has quality on the ball. He is a very complete player, so he will be a great challenge for all of us", he said.

The Norwegian highlighted, however, that the concern goes beyond Rice.

"It's not just about Declan. The whole of England has incredible players. It will be a huge test, but we're looking forward to it. Hopefully we can make even more history."

Norway arrives strong after eliminating Brazil in the round of 16 and reaching, for the first time, the quarter-finals of a World Cup. Even once again considered an underdog, Odegaard believes his team can surprise.

"Against Brazil it was the same thing: we were the underdogs and, as everyone saw, anything can happen in football," he said.

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Source: CNN