Norway see off Finland to claim bragging rights in Scandinavia

Norway have claimed the bragging rights in Scandinavia after defeating Finland 2-0 in Tuesday evening's friendly international in Oslo.

The hosts fired an early warning shot in the eighth minute when Valon Berisha let fly from a direct free kick, his effort sailing out for a goal kick.

Fredrik Gulbrandsen came closer to breaking the deadlock for Norway four minutes later as he gained possession in the penalty area and fired narrowly wide.

Finland were inches away from snatching the lead against the run of play moments before half time when Joona Toivio connected with Paulus Arajuuri's nod-on inside the box, his strike nicking the post on its way behind.

Norway took the lead just before the hour mark. Havard Nordtveit provided the cross and Jo Inge Berget was on hand to smash into the top corner from inside the six-yard box.

The Finns almost struck back immediately as Roman Eremenko latched on to Ville Jalasto's lofted pass and tested Norway goalkeeper Andre Hansen from close range.

The visitors continued to push for an equaliser, but Norway delivered the knockout blow seven minutes from time when Stefan Johansen guided the ball in from close range to put the outcome beyond doubt.