Norway made a late hotel switch in Miami after players complained about noise, disruption, and a nearby construction site. The change came just days before the biggest match in the country’s World Cup history.
The team is set to face England at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Saturday with a place in the semifinals on the line. Instead of staying at the Dalmar Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Norway moved closer to the stadium to protect rest and preparation.
Why the move happened
According to The Independent, the original hotel environment was not working for the squad because of road noise and construction outside. A team representative told Fox News Digital that the switch was difficult, but the players wanted it and were satisfied with the new place.
“It is brutal having to move, but we are satisfied with the new place and everyone is happy now,” the team rep said. The same rep said the support staff managed the relocation in two-and-a-half hours and emphasized that a good atmosphere mattered most.
| Detail | Original Setup | New Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dalmar Hotel in Fort Lauderdale | Hotel closer to Hard Rock Stadium |
| Main concern | Noise and disruption from road traffic and construction | Improved conditions for rest and atmosphere |
| Logistics | Stayed at the original hotel | Moved in two-and-a-half hours |
FIFA and Norway split the hotel costs
The Independent reported that FIFA agreed to cover 50 rooms and security at the new hotel. The Norwegian Football Association will handle any extra charges tied to the switch.
The relocation was framed as a practical decision rather than a distraction, especially with the team planning to stay in Miami for a week. The rep said the squad has already spent six weeks in the United States and wants to avoid any risk of cabin fever before the match.
Haaland has driven Norway’s run
Norway reached this stage with help from Erling Haaland, who scored two second-half goals in the Round of 16 win over Brazil. The victory also sent Norway past the Round of 16 for the first time in the nation’s history.
The team has also dealt with illness in recent days, adding another layer to the build-up. Even so, Norway is now preparing for only its fourth World Cup appearance and its first since 1998.
Fans have already shown strong support during the tournament, including a group that performed the Viking row in Times Square ahead of Norway’s group match against Senegal. With England next, the focus has shifted from hotel problems to keeping the squad settled for the biggest game it has ever played.