Cathinka Tandberg aims for Champions League and Norway World Cup spot

Cathinka Tandberg has set ambitious goals for her second season with Tottenham, aiming for Champions League qualification and a place in the Norwegian national team for the 2027 World Cup. The forward, who scored a memorable 40-yard lob on her debut against Everton, is ready to embrace increased responsibility following the departure of club captain Beth England.

A Dream Debut and New Responsibilities

Tandberg joined Tottenham last summer and quickly made an impact. Her debut goal, a perfectly judged lob over Everton's goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan, signalled the start of a new era for the club under head coach Martin Ho, backed by significant investment. Reflecting on her first year, Tandberg told Standard Sport, "It is a bit wild to think I have already been here a year. I came in with attitude. I wanted to show myself. It was my first season and I’m just ready to show more."

Last season, Tandberg contributed six league goals as Tottenham finished 13 points outside the European qualification places. This year, she will inherit the No9 shirt previously worn by Beth England, who has since moved to Crystal Palace. Tandberg expressed her pride in taking on the number, stating, "I will wear the No9 shirt with pride, but I want to make it mine. I want to make it a number people remember with my name on it."

Strengthened Squad and High Expectations

Tottenham's recruitment this summer has bolstered the squad, with Alice Sombath arriving in a club-record deal, and Victoria Pelova, Kirsty Hanson, and Shekeira Martinez signing from rival Women's Super League clubs. Tandberg believes these additions make Champions League qualification achievable. "The players that we have now, that is 100 per cent achievable. If we focus on ourselves, we will win a lot of games. That is everyone’s dream," she said.

The Norwegian international is also focused on her national team ambitions. Currently behind Barcelona's Caroline Graham Hansen in the pecking order for Norway, Tandberg intends to use the upcoming season to prove her worth for the 2027 World Cup squad. "I will use this year as a year to show I am good enough, and I am going to be in that squad. I want to fight to be in the team, and I want to be a player that plays in those tournaments," she stated.

Looking Ahead

Tandberg's personal targets for the season remain private, but her focus is clear: to perform at a high level for Tottenham and secure her place on the international stage. The club's investment and the quality of new signings suggest a strong campaign ahead.