High-Security Match in Oslo Sparks Protests Amid World Cup Hopes

OSLO, Norway — The upcoming World Cup qualifying match between Norway and Israel at Ullevaal Stadion on Saturday is surrounded by heightened security and political controversy. Oslo is preparing for one of the most secure events since the 1994 Winter Olympics, with anti-terror measures in place to handle possible unrest.

Norway’s national team is on the brink of qualifying for their first World Cup in 27 years. However, tensions are flaring due to the political implications of Israel’s participation. A peaceful march under the slogan “Red card for Israel” is expected to draw several thousand protesters from Oslo’s center to the stadium.

The demonstration is organized by the Palestine Committee, along with various other groups. Meanwhile, posters promoting a separate protest titled “Stop the national match” have been spotted around Grønland metro station. Authorities have been preparing for these protests since the teams were drawn over a year ago.

Israeli captain Eli Dasa acknowledged the usual high security surrounding their matches but noted that the current situation feels different. “Not much higher than usual,” he said, but reports indicate that 16 Mossad agents will accompany the team.

Lise Klaveness, president of the Norwegian Football Federation, faces intense scrutiny for her outspoken views on Israel’s participation in international football. Klaveness has publicly pushed for a ban on Israel, which has soured relations between the countries. On Friday, she faced aggressive questioning from Israeli journalists.

The NFF’s decision to donate proceeds from the match to Doctors Without Borders, benefiting Gaza, further incensed the Israeli Football Association, leading to accusations of intentional provocation.

As international attention mounts, Uefa recently postponed a decision regarding a potential ban on Israel, initially suggested after a UN commission accused the state of committing genocide. Instead, discussions are taking place as tensions evolve.

Klageness clarified, “It’s not an effort to ban Israel; it’s about a rules-based system.” She emphasized the need for peace over any sporting event, stating that humanitarian issues supersede the game.

Line Khateeb, leading the Palestine Committee, stated, “Israel shouldn’t be included in an international football arena when they are violating international law.” She expressed support for Norway against Israel in the game but insists that politics should not be sidelined.

A visibly tense atmosphere enveloped a pre-match press conference when Israel’s manager, Ran Ben Shimon, paused to pray, expressing hope for the return of living Israeli hostages. Dasa mentioned, “Since October 7, we haven’t attended a game with the feeling of hope.”

On match day, some 200 Israeli fans are expected, while Norwegian supporters will be limited to around 3,000, reflecting the heightened security. Officials have closed parts of the stadium to mitigate risks of unrest.

The mixture of sports and politics will be on full display as Norway aims for victory, with both teams needing the win to advance towards the World Cup.