Ødegaard Injury Casts Shadow Over Norway’s Late Victory Against Austria.
Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard limped off during Norway’s Nations League match against Austria, despite his team securing a 2-1 win courtesy of Erling Haaland’s late goal. Ødegaard, a key figure for both club and country, suffered an ankle injury after a foul by Christoph Baumgartner midway through the second half.
The injury puts Ødegaard’s participation in Sunday’s north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur in doubt. With Arsenal already missing Declan Rice due to suspension, Ødegaard’s potential absence could be a significant blow for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Norway manager Ståle Solbakken expressed concern following the match. “It looked painful in the locker room,” Solbakken told TV2. “We know it’s an ankle sprain. Hopefully, it’s not too serious, but I doubt Arteta will be happy with me tonight.”
Norway’s team doctor, Ola Sand, added: “He’s got a small ankle sprain. We will assess further and possibly use an MRI tomorrow if necessary.”
Despite Ødegaard’s injury, Norway triumphed in the match. Felix Myhre opened the scoring for Norway before Marcel Sabitzer equalised for Austria in the first half. The match seemed to be heading for a draw until Erling Haaland, displaying his usual strength and precision, netted the winner in the final minutes.
With Ødegaard’s condition uncertain, Arsenal face anxious days ahead, as they prepare for key fixtures, including the north London derby, a Champions League match against Atalanta, and a crucial Premier League encounter against Manchester City.
