Sundhage Criticizes Norway's Tactical Play Ahead of European Championship

Pia Sundhage's Switzerland meets Norway in the European Championship premiere at home. Then the national team captain has found something she does not like about the Norwegians. I think it's stupid. I have been brought up with fair play.

» Published: July 02 2025

Sundhage Criticizes Norway's Tactical Play Ahead of European Championship
Photo: Salvatore Di Nolfi/AP/TT

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In several matches, the goalkeeper in Norway has laid down and played injured to get a tactical pause, says Sundhage.

I have seen it in several matches and have a problem with it, says Sundhage to NRK and continues:

I am tired of the goalkeeper laying down. It is a tactical stop. I think it is stupid, I was raised with fair play.

Norway's coach Gemma Grainger does not take the criticism to heart and confirms that it is intentional.

All teams in the world do it. I do not think it is that cynical that the coach wants to talk to their players.

Cecilie Fiskerstrand, goalkeeper in Norway, does not see any problem with the move either.

Top-level sports are cynical. We must do everything we can to win.

Switzerland will face Norway on Wednesday evening at 21.00.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers

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