Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Norway v Northern Ireland: Oxtoby’s side ‘more dangerous than ever’

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Norway forward Ada Hegerberg is relishing the chance to close out what has been a positive year on a high in the second leg, which is being played at the 28,000-capacity Ullevaal Stadium.

“It’s nice to be back home again, we’re not here very often, so to play with the crowd is a very nice feeling,” she said.

“We have an opportunity to seal our ticket to the Euros so we will take that very seriously. We don’t want to stop after the first game.

“I know 4-0 is a strong result but our minds have shifted to it being 0-0 again because we really want to achieve a good result.”

The former Ballon d’Or winner admitted she is pleased to be back playing on a grass pitch that is more expansive than the smaller, synthetic surface at Inver Park.

“I appreciate a good grass pitch. For all players involved that is a win, we want to play on good pitches and in good stadiums and that should be the case for everyone at this level,” she added.

Hegerberg, who has scored 49 international goals, started on the bench on Friday night and acknowledged there is fierce competition for places in the squad.

“You need a strong base of players but also some knocking on the door who want a place in the squad, and I feel like we’re heading towards that,” she explained.

“I think and I hope we’re onto something good.”

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