Norway’s Ada Hegerberg walks off shortly before match against Switzerland

A World Cup star left fans stunned and teammates alarmed as she made a hasty exit in the moments right before a group stage match.

Norway star Ada Hegerberg played no part in her side’s 0-0 draw against Switzerland in the Women’s World Cup.

That’s despite lining up for the national anthem before kick-off.

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Hegerberg, 28, left fans stunned and teammates alarmed as she walked off the pitch moments after belting out her country’s song.

The Lyon star and former Ballon d’Or winner was set to be the star of the show in the group stage clash between Norway and Switzerland.

Hegerberg, also a six-time Champions League victor, trained with teammates in the build-up.

And she then lined up for the national anthem, joining in the raucous noise before kick-off.

But as soon as the final preparations were done, Hegerberg beat a hasty retreat off the pitch and down the tunnel.

Hegerberg walked off shortly before the match. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)

Even teammates looked bemused as their leading light exited the field without a ball being kicked.

Hegerberg then watched on from the bench as Norway played out a 0-0 draw against the Swiss.

Her national team later confirmed she withdrew from playing after suffering a groin injury during the warm-up.

Fans quickly reacted on social media to the incident.

One said: “She said not today and I feel her.”

Another declared: “Relatable.”

One noted: “Last thing Norway needed.”

Another added: “They are in trouble without her.”

Ada Hegerberg watched on from the bench. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)

Norway will now be hoping Hegerberg is fit for their final group stage game against the Philippines.

It’s become a must-win clash following their opening day defeat to hosts New Zealand.

Hegerberg has 43 goals in 76 games for her country.

At club level, she’s hit the back of the net 243 times in just 219 outings for Lyon.

Hegerberg has won eight titles, six cups and six Champions Leagues during her time in France.

But after missing the entire 2020/21 season with an ACL injury, she will not be wanting to take any chances with her latest setback.

This article originally appeared on The Sun and was reproduced with permission.