Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard will swap club chemistry for international rivalry when England face Norway in Saturday’s FIFA World Cup quarter-final.
The Arsenal midfield duo enjoyed a memorable campaign together, helping the North London side lift the Premier League title after a 22-year wait and reach the UEFA Champions League final. This weekend, however, they will be on opposite sides as both nations chase a place in the last four.
Norway captain Odegaard has been among the competition’s top creators, contributing three assists and emerging as one of his country’s most influential players. FIFA statistics also rank him as Norway’s leading sprinter during the tournament, while only Sander Berge has covered more ground.
Rice previously spoke glowingly about Odegaard’s influence at Arsenal, describing the Norwegian as an outstanding leader.
“He’s one of the best lads I’ve seen in terms of how he lives his life off the pitch,” Rice said.
“He’s got the full respect of the [Arsenal] dressing room, the way he demands, the way he drives the team, the way he speaks. He’s been amazing for us, and I wouldn’t one anyone else being our captain.”
Despite that admiration, Rice’s job on Saturday will be to stop Odegaard from controlling the game.
The England midfielder has also impressed at the World Cup, combining defensive discipline with excellent passing and strong set-piece deliveries.
Odegaard returned the compliments by describing Rice as one of the game’s most complete midfielders.
“He’s someone who always gives absolutely everything for the team. He is always fighting for every single ball, bringing his energy to the pitch, driving the team forward,” Odegaard said.
“He can defend, he can attack, he can be physical, he can be good on the ball. He’s a very complete player, so it’s going to be a good test for all of us.”
England coach Thomas Tuchel also highlighted Rice’s importance to his squad.
“He is one of the very best midfielders in the world,” Tuchel said.
“He is also very humble, a football lover. He is a team player and is ready every day to give energy and quality to the group. I am proud to be his coach.”
England are chasing a first World Cup triumph since 1966, while Norway are hoping to continue their historic run after reaching the quarter-finals for the first time.