The upcoming international friendly between Norway and Sweden promises to be an exciting Scandinavian showdown as both teams continue their preparations for the 2026 World Cup. The two sides share a long-standing rivalry, and with both having shown attacking intent in recent outings, this fixture could deliver plenty of entertainment. Their last five meetings have averaged over three goals per game, suggesting that another high-scoring encounter may be on the cards.

Norway’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Norway enter this friendly in impressive form, having enjoyed a remarkable run of results over the past year. The Lions have recorded five consecutive wins in their most recent matches, scoring an average of 4.8 goals per game while conceding just 0.4. Their most recent victory came in a dominant 4-1 win over Estonia on November 13, 2025, further underlining their attacking prowess.

At home, Norway have been particularly strong, remaining unbeaten in their last 12 home fixtures across all competitions, with nine wins and three draws. During this stretch, they have scored two or more goals in eight matches, showing consistency in front of goal. Although their current Friendly International season record stands at 0 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss, their overall trajectory remains positive, especially considering their unbeaten World Cup qualifying campaign that secured their first appearance at the tournament since 1998.

• Last 5 matches: 5 wins, 0 draws, 0 defeats


• Average goals scored: 4.8


• Average goals conceded: 0.4


• Ranking in Friendly International: 1st

With such numbers, Norway are viewed as one of the dark horses heading into the World Cup. Their attacking efficiency and defensive stability make them a formidable opponent, particularly on home soil.

Sweden’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Sweden, on the other hand, approach this match looking to regain consistency after a mixed run of results. The Blue and Yellows have managed just one win in their last five matches, alongside one draw and three defeats. They have averaged 1.0 goal scored and 1.8 goals conceded per game during this period, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities that have cost them valuable results.

Despite their struggles during World Cup qualifying, Sweden managed to secure their place in the tournament through the Path B Playoffs, defeating Ukraine and Poland in back-to-back matches. Their 1-3 victory over Ukraine on March 26, 2026, was a much-needed boost, as they scored six goals across those two playoff wins—two more than they managed throughout their entire qualifying campaign. However, the team has now failed to keep a clean sheet in nine consecutive matches, a worrying trend they will need to address before facing a free-scoring Norwegian side.

• Last 5 matches: 1 win, 1 draw, 3 defeats


• Average goals scored: 1.0


• Average goals conceded: 1.8


• Ranking in Friendly International: 2nd

Sweden’s away form has also been inconsistent, with only two wins in their last six away fixtures. They have struggled in recent meetings with Norway, remaining winless in their last six head-to-head encounters. The most recent clash between the two nations ended 3-2 in favor of Norway on June 12, 2022, further emphasizing the hosts’ upper hand in this rivalry.

Norway vs Sweden Tactical Overview and Prediction

This friendly offers both teams a valuable opportunity to fine-tune their systems ahead of the World Cup. Norway’s attacking momentum and home advantage make them slight favorites, but Sweden’s ability to rise to the occasion in crucial matches cannot be overlooked. Given the attacking profiles of both sides and their recent defensive records, this fixture has all the ingredients for a lively contest.

Historically, matches between these two have been open and entertaining, with Norway averaging 2.0 goals scored and 1.6 conceded per game in their recent head-to-heads. Both teams have shown a tendency to score and concede, which aligns with the statistical trends pointing toward goals at both ends.

Considering Norway’s attacking form and Sweden’s need to build momentum, a balanced yet offensive approach from both sides is expected. The hosts will likely look to impose their rhythm early, while the visitors may rely on quick transitions to exploit spaces. The combination of Norway’s efficiency in front of goal and Sweden’s unpredictable defense could lead to another high-scoring affair.

Norway vs Sweden prediction from BetMines: Both Teams To Score (Yes) with 60% probability.