Martin Odegaard scored 15 minutes from time as Norway came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Morocco in a FIFA World Cup warm-up international on Sunday.
Morocco took an early lead through Brahim Diaz, whose powerful strike from the edge of the penalty area found the net in the seventh minute. The North Africans, semi-finalists at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, looked in control for a long time, but could not stop Norway’s late rise.
The Norwegians coped well with the warm conditions and increasingly threatened in the final phase. Kristian Thorstvedt was close to completing the turnaround nine minutes before the end and headed Julian Ryerson’s free kick narrowly wide.
Norway’s pressure finally paid off as Oscar Bobb made his way into the penalty area before laying the ball off for Odegaard, who finished cleverly with his left foot to level the scores.
Morocco had started well and were rewarded when Diaz was given space on the edge of the penalty area to unleash an unstoppable effort. It was the attacking midfielder’s first goal for Morocco since the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, where he finished as the tournament’s top scorer despite missing a penalty in the final.
The host could have doubled its lead before halftime. Abdessamad Ezzalzouli connected with Diaz’s cross after half an hour, but sent his volley wide of the goal.
Morocco also threatened after the restart when Diaz’s shot was parried by Norwegian goalkeeper Orjan Nyland in the 57th minute, before Neil El Aynaoui headed the rebound over the crossbar.
However, Norway finished as the stronger team and forced Morocco to go on the defensive in search of a winner.
Morocco opens its World Cup campaign in Group C against Brazil in New York on Saturday, while Norway opens its Group I challenge against Iraq in Boston on June 16.
Published on June 8, 2026
