Martin Odegaard has been singled out for criticism for his performance in Norway's defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 qualifier.
In need of a victory at home on Sunday, Odegaard led his nation but a Gavi strike almost ended their European dream.
Nettavisen gave him a 4/10 rating, suggesting that he became increasingly quiet as the game went on.“Was clearly Norway’s best player in the first few minutes when Spain took control from the start," the outlet wrote.
"Very good in the pressing game, and also managed to keep the ball a bit when Norway got very few breaks with the ball in the team. Seemed violently pumped up from the start, but disappeared completely out of the match later in the match.
"Never managed to get hold of the ball against a Spanish midfield that occasionally did what they wanted with the ball".
Meanwhile, NRK opted for a 5/10 score. “The captain was self-described for the match which he himself described as extra special for him personally, but never left a big mark on the game.
"Had a great opportunity after an hour, but the ball slipped off his foot and went wide. When we meet the best teams, our best players have to stand up, Odegaard couldn’t do that today.
"He’s a world star, and considering that, it’s disappointing that he can’t get more involved in the build-up game,” was their assessment."
Norway must now hope to claim one of the three available playoff spots — a feat that is far from a foregone conclusion.
