Now, with new manager Gemma Grainger in the dugout, Norway are looking to build again and deliver the success the talent in their squad merits.
Chelsea’s Retien and Arsenal’s Frida Maanum are two of the best players in England’s Women’s Super League and while she has been hit by injuries in recent years, former Ballon d’Or winner Ada Hegerberg still oozes class.
There are stars everywhere you look, but it is Graham Hansen who shines the brightest.
Former Wales manager Grainger said Graham Hansen, who finished second behind Aitana Bonmati in the Ballon d’Or standings this year, has “so many qualities” that help her impact any game she plays.
“People see the attacking side of her game and the individual quality that she has, that goes without saying.
“But if you see her out of possession and some of the defensive runs that she made, she has that all-round game.”
For Grainger, that is what makes her stand out from some of the other top players.
“That’s what makes her a special player. Some of the best players maybe only have one side of that game but she has both.
“She led us out and her leadership skills, both on and off the pitch, are vital to us.”