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Norway took a decisive step in their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 3-0 win over Italy in Oslo on Friday, marking their first qualifying victory over the Azzurri in 25 years.
According to a match report by CGTN, Erling Haaland continued his prolific form by netting the third goal just before halftime. The Manchester City forward latched onto a pass from Martin Odegaard, rounded goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, and calmly finished — recording his 41st goal in 42 games for Norway.
The Ullevaal Stadium crowd, including King Harald V, erupted as Haaland sealed another impressive result for the hosts in Europe’s Group I.
Norway opened scoring through Alexander Sorloth, who converted a well-timed pass from Antonio Nusa with a left-footed strike. Nusa, just 20 years old, tormented Italy’s defense throughout the night. He created the second goal by evading two defenders before blasting a shot into the roof of the net.
Italy, missing several key players, struggled from kickoff. Mateo Retegui, Serie A’s leading scorer, failed to make an impact, and Luciano Spalletti’s defensive setup lacked stability. With injuries to Alessandro Buongiorno, Mattia Gabbia, Manuel Locatelli, and Moise Kean, the squad was further weakened by Francesco Acerbi’s decision to decline his callup. Diego Coppola filled the central defensive role but was unable to contain Norway’s front line.
“He just has that instinct. When the ball comes, you know it’s a goal,” said Martin Odegaard, referring to Haaland’s clinical finish.
With three wins from three, Norway sit top of Group I. Italy now face a critical stretch in qualifying. The four-time World Cup winners have missed the past two tournaments and face the threat of entering playoffs again — a route that saw them fall short in 2018 and 2022.
In other Group I action, Israel defeated Estonia 3-1 and moved into second place behind Norway.
Italy must regroup quickly as they prepare to host Moldova on Monday. Norway will aim to maintain momentum when they travel to Estonia.
This article was updated 3 weeks ago