Wales remain focused on their upcoming Nations League fixture against Norway despite a challenging start to their 2026 campaign, according to defender Chris Mepham. The Welsh team currently sits at the bottom of their Nations League A group following defeats to Portugal and Denmark in their opening matches. Head coach Craig Bellamy’s side has yet to secure a win in any of their six games this year.

Wales last recorded a significant victory with a 7-1 win over North Macedonia in November but have since struggled to qualify for the World Cup and to compete at the highest level in their Nations League group, which includes Denmark, Norway, and Portugal. Mepham emphasized that the team recognizes the quality of its opponents and believes firmly that Wales belong in this competitive tier.

“No excuses,” Mepham stated, noting the step up in competition from previous opponents such as Kazakhstan, North Macedonia, and Montenegro. The recent narrow 1-0 loss to Portugal in Lisbon showed some positive signs for the Welsh side, but their subsequent 2-0 defeat by Denmark in Copenhagen highlighted the difficulties ahead. Denmark controlled much of that match, creating the best scoring opportunities in the second half.

Looking ahead, Wales face a demanding schedule with Norway visiting Cardiff on Thursday, followed by a return match against Denmark three days later. Mepham stressed the importance of recovery during this intense international window and acknowledged the value of testing themselves against top-class opposition. “It’s all well and good playing lesser players and lesser quality opposition, but that’s not testing you as a footballer,” he said.

Norway enters the match also eager to bounce back after a 2-1 home loss to Portugal on Sunday. Erling Haaland, Norway’s prolific striker, continues to shine on the international stage, recently extending his scoring record to 65 goals in 57 games. Haaland has netted 31 goals in his last 21 international appearances and leads the Nations League with 22 goals.

Mepham, who has faced Haaland several times, described the Manchester City forward as a formidable opponent possessing speed, strength, technical skill, and an exceptional goal-scoring ability. “You’ve got to pick and choose your battles at times when you come up against him,” Mepham said. He added that the Welsh camp would prepare thoroughly to handle Norway’s key threat in the upcoming match.