Norway coach blasts Scotland manager Clarke for canceling friendly in 2026

Scotland coach Steve Clarke canceled a training-friendly match with Norway, prompting criticism from Norwegian manager Stale Solbakken.

Match cancellation sparks controversy Scotland head coach Steve Clarke called off a planned training-ground friendly against Norway just before the World Cup, citing minor injuries in his squad. Both teams were preparing in North Carolina ahead of the tournament. Norway’s football federation announced the cancellation on Sunday, stating Scotland pulled out due to one or two small issues picked up the previous week. Clarke later told a local outlet the game was meant to be a low-risk session for about an hour at their training facility. ## Norway manager voices strong disapproval Norway manager Stale Solbakken expressed surprise and frustration over the cancellation, calling it unprofessional during a post-match interview. He criticized Clarke for not personally contacting him and instead having the team manager make the call after Norway had finished their training. Solbakken argued the reported injuries did not come from the last session and called the situation disappointing. Despite his annoyance, he acknowledged Norway had to adapt during their 1-1 draw with Morocco. ## Scotland complete final warm-up match Scotland wrapped up their public preparation with a 4-0 win over Bolivia on Saturday, using most of the squad in the process. Clarke’s side had planned an extra session with Norway but scrapped it due to concern over fitness issues. The Scots face Haiti in their Group C opener, while Norway begin their Group I campaign against Iraq three days later. ## Norway staff highlight logistical impact Norway’s team manager, former Fulham defender Brede Hangeland, described canceling the match days beforehand as embarrassing. He revealed Norway had spent months organizing the closed-doors friendly and had travel and training schedules arranged around it. Hangeland questioned the decision, calling it weak and a breach of earlier understandings. The Norwegian side had to adjust their World Cup plans after the cancellation left them without the planned session.