Odegaard may play as Norway players talk revenge on Bernardo Silva
On Sunday, September 29, 2026, Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 in a UEFA Nations League match in Oslo, but the post‑match focus shifted to a heavy tackle by Portugal’s Bernardo Silva on Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard. Odegaard said he lost control after releasing the ball, calling Silva’s conduct "inappropriate for professional football" and saying he "completely lost control." Norway manager Brede Hangeland reported that Odegaard is progressing well and could be available for both upcoming fixtures: a Thursday, October 3 match against Wales and a Sunday, October 6 rematch with Portugal in Porto. Teammates Patrick Berg and Torbjørn Heggem acknowledged the tackle was bad but stopped short of endorsing revenge, with Berg saying a retaliation "could set things off a bit" and Heggem noting a revenge tackle is rarely the answer. The incident raises questions about player safety, sportsmanship, and how Arsenal might be affected if Odegaard misses further Premier League action. Will Odegaard’s possible return ease Arsenal’s midfield concerns, or will the lingering desire for retaliation shape Norway’s approach against Portugal?