Norway now lead the group with nine points from three games while Italy are fourth in the group with zero points from one game.
Norway delivered a sensational statement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as they stunned four-time champions Italy with a ruthless 3-0 victory in Oslo. Goals from Alexander Sorloth, Antonio Nusa, and Erling Haaland sealed a dominant performance that puts Norway top of Group I with three wins from three. Notably, all three goals were scored in the first half.
Italy, who have now failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, were expected to bounce back strong. But their qualifying campaign is already off to a nightmare start. Despite enjoying more possession, the Azzurri looked toothless in attack and disjointed in defence.
The opening goal came just 14 minutes in when Antonio Nusa slipped in Sorloth, who timed his run perfectly and finished calmly past Gianluigi Donnarumma. Nusa then doubled the lead with a sensational solo effort, dancing past two defenders and firing in a precise low shot.
Erling Haaland added a third before half-time after being fed by Martin Odegaard. The Manchester City striker rounded Donnarumma to put the result beyond doubt. Italy managed only one shot on target all game, with their best chance falling to Lorenzo Lucca deep in stoppage time. However, his header was dealt with by Norway’s goalkeeper Orjan Nyland.
Norway nearly extended their lead in the second half, with Sander Berge smashing the post with a long-range rocket. The second 45 minutes saw a more conservative approach from the hosts, but the damage was already done.
Italy now sit fourth in the group with zero points from one game, although they have two games in hand. Norway lead the group with nine points, followed by Israel (6 pts) and Estonia (3 pts).
Meanwhile in Group J, Belgium’s qualification campaign began with a frustrating 1-1 draw away to North Macedonia. Maxim De Cuyper had put the Red Devils in front, finishing a rebound after Romelu Lukaku’s effort was blocked. But the hosts found a late equaliser through former Leeds United defender Ezgjan Alioski, who volleyed home in the 86th minute to cap a gritty display from the Macedonians.
The result extends North Macedonia’s unbeaten run in qualifiers to three games. They sit just behind group leaders Wales, who cruised to a 3-0 win over Liechtenstein and now top the standings with seven points.
soccer
