The phrase “dark horse” is often used in sports, but few national teams fit the description better than Norway leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Scandinavia’s nation of footballing talent has one of its most talented squads of all time and is creating real buzz as it looks to end decades of disappointment and make its mark on football’s biggest stage.
This new Netflix documentary takes a deep dive into Norway’s journey, asking if a team with so much elite talent can translate potential into success. It has been more than two decades since the Norwegians last appeared at a World Cup, and supporters can hardly be more hopeful.
This ambitious project is led by a group of players capable of competing with the best in the world. Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard are among the superstars leading a squad that also features a number of up-and-coming talents and experienced internationals. This documentary looks at how this generation has become one of the most exciting teams in European football and why many believe they are capable of shocking the world in 2026.
The series, which consists of two feature-length episodes, follows Norway’s qualification journey and the obstacles they faced to get to the World Cup. Cameras follow the team as they face key fixtures and tough opponents and have to deliver results under pressure.
The first episode addresses the consequences of past disappointments and the resolve to move on. The side are looking to build confidence and keep the momentum going with key qualifying games in focus. The second episode moves focus to the defining moments that could define the future of Norwegian football while also looking at what success on the international stage could mean for the country.
One of the documentary’s strengths is its smooth combination of match footage with personal stories. It mixes archival footage from key games with interviews of players, coaches and close observers of the national team. This allows for a better understanding of Norway’s football identity, as well as the successes and failures that have shaped the program throughout the years.
One of the more interesting elements of the series is the focus on head coach Ståle Solbakken. The documentary examines his attempts to rebuild the national team and create a winning culture after years of inconsistency. We also get flashes of important moments from his personal and professional life which give the narrative an emotional depth and help to understand the leadership style he brings to the squad.
But the series manages to be far more than a story about Norway being an underdog. It highlights a team packed with match-winners, creative talent and game-changing players at the top level. The documentary doesn’t focus on star power, but on the collective belief building within the squad and the feeling that something special might be brewing.
Norway may not be fancied to win the 2026 World Cup, but they are one of the most interesting teams in the tournament as it approaches. With a squad full of top-class players and a new-found confidence under the stewardship of Solbakken, a breakthrough is not out of the question.
It is a fascinating insight into a country determined to make a return to the biggest stage in football, and provides a compelling case that Norway could be one of the most dangerous dark horses of the tournament. Whether they can live up to that promise remains to be seen, but their story is certainly one to watch.# Judgment
Norway’s World Cup documentary is a fun, educational sports series that mashes football action, personal stories and historical context into a gripping bundle. This is a good watch for football fans who want to learn more about one of the most exciting up-and-coming teams in international football and builds anticipation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.