Norway vs Netherlands: Players Unhappy with Hotel Choice

Norway Squad unhappy with Accommodations in Amsterdam | Photo: Vegard Grott / Bildbyran Photo Agency / Profimedia

Norway players unhappy with hotel accommodations ahead of friendly against Netherlands in Amsterdam. Coach Stale Solbakken rejects criticism, says team is focused on the match.

Norway players slam 'subpar' hotel ahead of Dutch friendly...

Norwegian players are up in arms about their hotel accommodations ahead of their friendly match against the Netherlands in Amsterdam. The team, led by coach Stale Solbakken, is staying at the Van der Valk Hotel Oostzaan, which is about 20 minutes from the city center. However, some players aren't thrilled with the choice, sparking criticism that's been swiftly rejected by Solbakken.

The hotel's location and amenities might be part of the issue. Reviews suggest it's a bit far from the action, and some guests have complained about cramped rooms and inconsistent service. On the other hand, the hotel is modern and has a lively atmosphere, with some guests praising its cleanliness and helpful staff.

The hotel view is a four-lane highway, where the sound of heavy traffic is a constant companion for the Norwegian players. Let's just say the squad isn't exactly thrilled with the setup.

The noise and distractions haven't gone down well with the team, and it's affecting their vibe.

“I didn't expect that. I think it's a bit weak, to be honest. I've passed it on to the relevant people, says Borussia Dortmund's Julian Ryerson. “I asked who had planned this here. I've been to Amsterdam quite a bit. I live 2.5 hours away. It's a nice city, so I was a little disappointed when I saw this,” says Ryerson to Dagbladet. 

Morten Thorsby, a Cremonese regular, is backing his teammates' complaints, slashing at the FA's decision to lodge them at the hotel. “Geographical location” might be a polite way of saying it's in the middle of nowhere.

Thorsby isn't mincing words, questioning why the team is stuck out in the sticks when they're supposed to be preparing for a big match against the Netherlands. His comments add fuel to the fire, putting more pressure on the FA to address the issue.

“I know Amsterdam well. I was here quite a bit when I played in Heerenveen. There are a couple of nice places to go. Even if you're staying in a nice hotel, there's something about getting out and having a change of scenery. You miss a café or two outside,” says the Norwegian international, according to Dagbladet. 

Stale Solbakken isn't losing any sleep over the players' complaints. The coach is staying cool, refusing to let the criticism get under his skin.

“It doesn't worry me that much. Maybe it's a test. If you can't handle three days on a four-lane highway here, you certainly won't handle 35 days in the USA. The hotel is not ideal, but we can handle it,” says the national coach, according to Dagbladet.

Norway takes on the Netherlands in a friendly match at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 19:45 CET. This match is part of their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.