FRANCE 98 – Norway – Egil Olsen: “Brazil has shown some weaknesses”

Norway – Egil Olsen: “Brazil has shown some weaknesses”

07.06.98 15h26 CET

How would you assess your team now, after the friendly matches and the training they’ve been through to prepare for the World Cup?

“Overall, the appraisal is positive. We’ve played five matches and obtained very good results, even if the performances weren’t perfect. We’ve been lucky; especially against FRANCE and DENMARK. The matches allowed me to test more than 30 players, which gives me a solid basis for my future choices”.

How do you feel about the group of players you have now, and who do you rely on most?

“The players all have their own specialities. Their creativity, heading and speed make them a well-rounded team. I’m not going to rely specifically on individual players. First and foremost, our game is about teamwork. Our zonal defence, for instance, clearly shows that. Each player should function as an integral part of our game.”

What do you think about the group you are in? What results do you predict and which team do you think will win?

“We were quite satisfied with the final draw in MARSEILLE. It was a much better draw than we had for the 1994 World Cup. That said, we still have to face three strong teams. There is no weak team in this group. MOROCCO is capable of playing very well. They were very impressive against FRANCE. BRAZIL is of course the favourite, even if they have shown some weaknesses. Any of the teams in the group could take a point from them. I put our chances of qualifying for the second round at 50%”.

What are your ambitions for this World Cup?

“We hope to make it through the group games. That would be a great opportunity for Norwegian football. If we do qualify though, we’ll try to go further”.

“What do you think of France and the reception you’ve had here? What are your first impressions of our country?

“Personally, I have a special relationship with France. As a student in Oslo, I studied French and read a lot about existentialism, which was in fashion then – Camus, Sartre and so on. I haven’t visited France often, though. I think we’ve been well received. The people are friendly and welcoming. As a coach, I’m pleased to see the excellent working conditions we have here. The pitch is in perfect condition”.