Norway Defeats Italy 3-0, First Win in 25 Years in World Cup Qualifiers

Erling Haaland led Norway to a commanding 3-0 victory over Italy in their 2026 World Cup qualifying match, marking Norway's first win against Italy in 25 years. Haaland scored his 41st goal in 42 appearances by skillfully rounding goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, while teammates Alexander Sorloth and Antonio Nusa also contributed with goals. Norway maintained a perfect record in Group I, having previously defeated Moldova and Israel, putting Italy under significant pressure as they struggle without several key players due to injuries and call-up refusals, including center back Francesco Acerbi. Italy, a four-time World Cup champion, must now win the group to secure direct qualification to the tournament in North America, as finishing second would force them into playoffs where they have been eliminated in recent cycles. The match was witnessed by spectators including King Harald V of Norway, highlighting the national significance of the victory. In other Group I action, Israel beat Estonia, moving into second place behind Norway.