Martin Ødegaard Criticizes Bernardo Silva Over Tackle After Norway Match

Norway captain Martin Ødegaard sustained an ankle injury during a fixture against Portugal after a tackle by Real Madrid player Bernardo Silva, raising concerns for upcoming international matches.

Ankle Injury Threatens Upcoming Fixtures

The incident occurred roughly 90 minutes before Ødegaard addressed reporters outside the locker room at Ullevaal. During the closing moments of the match while Norway chased an equalizer, the captain remained in the mid-circle rather than moving up for a corner kick due to the physical issue, with Andreas Schjelderup stepping into his position.

After the final whistle, Ødegaard bypassed the standard media mixed zone and headed directly for the team bus. Observers noted that he was limping as he departed the national stadium. When asked by TV 2 whether the injury would keep him sidelined for upcoming fixtures, Ødegaard said, I hope not, but I got a knock on the ankle there, so it probably won’t feel good tonight.

The situation presents a potential problem for national team manager Ståle Solbakken ahead of scheduled matches against Wales on Thursday and Portugal on Sunday. National team doctor Ola Sand declined to answer questions from the press regarding the captain’s status.

Player and Analyst Reactions to the Challenge

Ødegaard directed sharp criticism toward Bernardo Silva over the tackle, indicating that the former Manchester City midfielder made no attempt to apologize. It’s brainless from him. Just kicks me down long after I’ve gotten rid of the ball. I don’t understand what he’s doing, Ødegaard told TV 2. It doesn’t belong on a football pitch. It’s a shame that people behave like that, but that’s life.

Television analysts and teammates also condemned the challenge. TV 2 commentator Simen Stamsø Møller labeled the tackle unnecessary and described Silva as a rough player. Teammate Patrick Berg noted that the challenge involved an intentional trailing leg, while TV 2 expert Morten Langli characterized the play as poor sportsmanship aimed at causing injury.

Teammate Andreas Schjelderup described the tackle as a severe trailing leg that deserved further scrutiny from officials. Conversely, Portugal goalscorer Gonçalo Ramos downplayed the incident, telling reporters that such challenges frequently occur and are simply part of the game.