By rikififi90 
Andreas Schjelderup, the young Benfica star, received a call-up to the Norwegian national team on Tuesday, March 11, marking his return to the squad led by Stale Solbakken. The 20-year-old forward, who debuted in a friendly against Kosovo in June last year, now has the chance to log his first official minutes in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Norway kicks off its campaign in Group I with matches against Moldova on March 22 and Israel on March 25, alongside Estonia and the loser of the Germany vs. Italy Nations League quarterfinal clash. This summons underscores Schjelderup’s strong form at the Portuguese club, where he’s been gaining traction among fans and analysts alike.
Schjelderup’s journey at Benfica has been one of patience and growth. Signed from Denmark’s Nordsjaelland in January 2023 for around 14 million euros, the Norwegian faced an adjustment period with limited minutes last season. Yet, his hard work in training and recent performances have caught the eye of both Benfica’s coach, Bruno Lage, and the Norwegian national team. As Norway aims for its first World Cup appearance since 1998, expectations are high that Schjelderup will play a key role in refreshing a squad already boasting talents like Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard.
The upcoming official matches offer Schjelderup a platform to showcase his skills in a competitive setting. Norway, absent from the last European Championship, is now embarking on a fresh cycle with its sights set on the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. His return to the national team signals Solbakken’s belief in his potential to add goals and flair to the attack.
Schjelderup’s rise at Benfica turns heads
Andreas Schjelderup’s path to this call-up hasn’t been straightforward. Arriving at Benfica as one of Scandinavia’s brightest prospects, he was loaned back to Nordsjaelland last season, where he shone and drew comparisons to Lionel Messi in the Danish league. Returning to Benfica this year, he started as a fringe player, ranking as the 23rd most-used squad member until January. However, his persistence paid off, seizing opportunities in the Portuguese League Cup with decisive goals against Sporting and Farense.
Currently, Schjelderup is enjoying his best spell at Benfica. Under Bruno Lage, he’s earned a starting spot in recent matches, displaying skill, speed, and a knack for scoring. His performance against Barcelona in a thrilling 4-5 Champions League loss caught the Spanish club’s attention, sparking interest in his progress. “I love being here and want to keep working hard,” Schjelderup said after the Barcelona buzz emerged, reaffirming his dedication to the Eagles.
Norway banks on youth for World Cup dream
Joining a gifted generation, Schjelderup aims to help Norway reclaim its place on the global stage. With stars like Haaland of Manchester City and Ødegaard of Arsenal already in the fold, the Benfica forward adds another layer to a squad brimming with potential. Group I of the European qualifiers poses challenges but also opportunities, with the opener against Moldova in Chisinau serving as an early test of Norway’s ambitions.
Schjelderup’s European football journey unfolds
Schjelderup’s career began in Norway but took off in Denmark. At Nordsjaelland, a club renowned for nurturing young talent, he scored 19 goals in 44 appearances before joining Benfica. His versatility—playing as a winger or center-forward—combined with his dribbling and finishing precision, made him a hot commodity in Europe. Clubs like Ajax and Besiktas have scouted him, but Benfica has held firm, banking on his long-term value.
At Benfica, Schjelderup initially competed with established names like Ángel Di María and Rafa Silva, limiting his early minutes. His technical and physical development, however, impressed the coaching staff, and recent goals paved the way for a regular starting role. With a 100-million-euro release clause, Benfica signals its high expectations, while Norwegian media already peg him as a rising international star.
Now, summoned for the World Cup qualifiers, Schjelderup stands poised to prove he’s more than a prospect. His season stats at Benfica—three goals in seven starts—suggest he’s ready to leap forward, both at club and country level.
Norway’s roadmap to the 2026 World Cup
Norway’s qualifying campaign kicks off soon, with the first two matches set. Here’s the schedule:
- March 22: Moldova vs. Norway, in Chisinau, at 5 p.m. (Brasília time).
- March 25: Israel vs. Norway, venue TBD, at 3 p.m. (Brasília time).
- June: Norway faces the Germany vs. Italy loser at home, date to be confirmed.
- October: Clashes with Estonia and Israel, details pending.
These opening games are pivotal for Norway, aiming to finish among the top two in the group for a direct World Cup spot or at least secure a playoff chance. With 12 European groups, only leaders qualify automatically, while second-place teams fight through an extra round.
European giants take notice
Schjelderup’s form hasn’t gone unnoticed beyond Portugal. His display against Barcelona prompted the Spanish club to track his development, while Besiktas, led by fellow Norwegian Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, attempted a February loan move that Benfica rebuffed. Ajax has also kept tabs on him since last year, though the Eagles remain steadfast in retaining their asset.
In Portugal, Benfica fans clamor for more of Schjelderup, especially after his clutch performances. “Schjelderup has to start, period,” a prominent supporter declared post-Farense win, echoing widespread excitement. His ability to shine in big moments—like scoring in the League Cup final against Sporting, followed by a celebration covering eyes, mouth, and ears—fuels anticipation for his future.
Norwegian media closely follows his rise too. Journalists note that while he’s already turning heads, consistency will cement his status in the national team and European football. His March call-up is viewed as a launching pad in that journey.
What makes Schjelderup stand out
Beyond his on-field prowess, Schjelderup brings unique traits that set him apart. Here’s what defines him:
- Versatility: Thrives as a left winger, center-forward, or attacking midfielder, adapting to tactical demands.
- Goal instinct: Scored against Sporting and Farense with his signature move—cutting in from the left and firing accurately.
- Mindset: Showed patience despite early bench time, capitalizing on every chance, notably in the League Cup.
- Track record: At 20, he’s already played in three countries (Norway, Denmark, Portugal).
These qualities, paired with his work ethic, make him a standout prospect for Benfica and Norway. His enhanced physicality also lets him hold his own against seasoned opponents without losing his explosive edge.
Looking ahead to March matches
Facing Moldova and Israel, Schjelderup will encounter varied opposition. Moldova, which finished last in its Euro qualifying group with just 10 points from 10 games, looks like a manageable foe. Israel, however, reached the Euro playoffs before losing to Iceland, promising a tougher battle, especially on home soil.
Stale Solbakken, Norway’s coach, has praised Schjelderup’s resilience. “He’s worked tirelessly and is now reaping the rewards,” the manager said recently. The hope is that Schjelderup, whether starting or subbing in, injects dynamism into a Norwegian attack that’s netted 18 goals in its last five official outings, largely thanks to Haaland.
For Benfica, the call-up brings pride but also logistical challenges, with key domestic and European matches in March. Still, fans see his international exposure as a boon for his growth and the club’s prestige.
Andreas Schjelderup, the young Benfica star, received a call-up to the Norwegian national team on Tuesday, March 11, marking his return to the squad led by Stale Solbakken. The 20-year-old forward, who debuted in a friendly against Kosovo in June last year, now has the chance to log his first official minutes in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Norway kicks off its campaign in Group I with matches against Moldova on March 22 and Israel on March 25, alongside Estonia and the loser of the Germany vs. Italy Nations League quarterfinal clash. This summons underscores Schjelderup’s strong form at the Portuguese club, where he’s been gaining traction among fans and analysts alike.
Schjelderup’s journey at Benfica has been one of patience and growth. Signed from Denmark’s Nordsjaelland in January 2023 for around 14 million euros, the Norwegian faced an adjustment period with limited minutes last season. Yet, his hard work in training and recent performances have caught the eye of both Benfica’s coach, Bruno Lage, and the Norwegian national team. As Norway aims for its first World Cup appearance since 1998, expectations are high that Schjelderup will play a key role in refreshing a squad already boasting talents like Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard.
The upcoming official matches offer Schjelderup a platform to showcase his skills in a competitive setting. Norway, absent from the last European Championship, is now embarking on a fresh cycle with its sights set on the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. His return to the national team signals Solbakken’s belief in his potential to add goals and flair to the attack.
Schjelderup’s rise at Benfica turns heads
Andreas Schjelderup’s path to this call-up hasn’t been straightforward. Arriving at Benfica as one of Scandinavia’s brightest prospects, he was loaned back to Nordsjaelland last season, where he shone and drew comparisons to Lionel Messi in the Danish league. Returning to Benfica this year, he started as a fringe player, ranking as the 23rd most-used squad member until January. However, his persistence paid off, seizing opportunities in the Portuguese League Cup with decisive goals against Sporting and Farense.
Currently, Schjelderup is enjoying his best spell at Benfica. Under Bruno Lage, he’s earned a starting spot in recent matches, displaying skill, speed, and a knack for scoring. His performance against Barcelona in a thrilling 4-5 Champions League loss caught the Spanish club’s attention, sparking interest in his progress. “I love being here and want to keep working hard,” Schjelderup said after the Barcelona buzz emerged, reaffirming his dedication to the Eagles.
Norway banks on youth for World Cup dream
Joining a gifted generation, Schjelderup aims to help Norway reclaim its place on the global stage. With stars like Haaland of Manchester City and Ødegaard of Arsenal already in the fold, the Benfica forward adds another layer to a squad brimming with potential. Group I of the European qualifiers poses challenges but also opportunities, with the opener against Moldova in Chisinau serving as an early test of Norway’s ambitions.
Schjelderup’s European football journey unfolds
Schjelderup’s career began in Norway but took off in Denmark. At Nordsjaelland, a club renowned for nurturing young talent, he scored 19 goals in 44 appearances before joining Benfica. His versatility—playing as a winger or center-forward—combined with his dribbling and finishing precision, made him a hot commodity in Europe. Clubs like Ajax and Besiktas have scouted him, but Benfica has held firm, banking on his long-term value.
At Benfica, Schjelderup initially competed with established names like Ángel Di María and Rafa Silva, limiting his early minutes. His technical and physical development, however, impressed the coaching staff, and recent goals paved the way for a regular starting role. With a 100-million-euro release clause, Benfica signals its high expectations, while Norwegian media already peg him as a rising international star.
Now, summoned for the World Cup qualifiers, Schjelderup stands poised to prove he’s more than a prospect. His season stats at Benfica—three goals in seven starts—suggest he’s ready to leap forward, both at club and country level.
Norway’s roadmap to the 2026 World Cup
Norway’s qualifying campaign kicks off soon, with the first two matches set. Here’s the schedule:
- March 22: Moldova vs. Norway, in Chisinau, at 5 p.m. (Brasília time).
- March 25: Israel vs. Norway, venue TBD, at 3 p.m. (Brasília time).
- June: Norway faces the Germany vs. Italy loser at home, date to be confirmed.
- October: Clashes with Estonia and Israel, details pending.
These opening games are pivotal for Norway, aiming to finish among the top two in the group for a direct World Cup spot or at least secure a playoff chance. With 12 European groups, only leaders qualify automatically, while second-place teams fight through an extra round.
European giants take notice
Schjelderup’s form hasn’t gone unnoticed beyond Portugal. His display against Barcelona prompted the Spanish club to track his development, while Besiktas, led by fellow Norwegian Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, attempted a February loan move that Benfica rebuffed. Ajax has also kept tabs on him since last year, though the Eagles remain steadfast in retaining their asset.
In Portugal, Benfica fans clamor for more of Schjelderup, especially after his clutch performances. “Schjelderup has to start, period,” a prominent supporter declared post-Farense win, echoing widespread excitement. His ability to shine in big moments—like scoring in the League Cup final against Sporting, followed by a celebration covering eyes, mouth, and ears—fuels anticipation for his future.
Norwegian media closely follows his rise too. Journalists note that while he’s already turning heads, consistency will cement his status in the national team and European football. His March call-up is viewed as a launching pad in that journey.
What makes Schjelderup stand out
Beyond his on-field prowess, Schjelderup brings unique traits that set him apart. Here’s what defines him:
- Versatility: Thrives as a left winger, center-forward, or attacking midfielder, adapting to tactical demands.
- Goal instinct: Scored against Sporting and Farense with his signature move—cutting in from the left and firing accurately.
- Mindset: Showed patience despite early bench time, capitalizing on every chance, notably in the League Cup.
- Track record: At 20, he’s already played in three countries (Norway, Denmark, Portugal).
These qualities, paired with his work ethic, make him a standout prospect for Benfica and Norway. His enhanced physicality also lets him hold his own against seasoned opponents without losing his explosive edge.
Looking ahead to March matches
Facing Moldova and Israel, Schjelderup will encounter varied opposition. Moldova, which finished last in its Euro qualifying group with just 10 points from 10 games, looks like a manageable foe. Israel, however, reached the Euro playoffs before losing to Iceland, promising a tougher battle, especially on home soil.
Stale Solbakken, Norway’s coach, has praised Schjelderup’s resilience. “He’s worked tirelessly and is now reaping the rewards,” the manager said recently. The hope is that Schjelderup, whether starting or subbing in, injects dynamism into a Norwegian attack that’s netted 18 goals in its last five official outings, largely thanks to Haaland.
For Benfica, the call-up brings pride but also logistical challenges, with key domestic and European matches in March. Still, fans see his international exposure as a boon for his growth and the club’s prestige.
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