Despite missing out on the services of Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard, Norway made light work of Italy at the San Siro in Milan to put an exclamation point on their qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Norway hammered host Italy 4-1 to close out their qualification in emphatic style and qualify to the FIFA World Cup for only the fourth time in the country’s history.
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland scored twice in the win to improve his tally to 16 goals in eight qualification games. Norway last competed at the World Cup in 1998.
After picking up the big win, Erling Haaland stated that he was relieved that Norway was back in the international circuit after being absent from any major international tournament at the senior level since Euro 2000.
“I’m happy, but more relieved. There’s a lot of pressure and stuff, and I feel it. But it’s fun” he said to TV2 in a post-game interview.
He continued to share his joy by stating, “Finally! … So proud of this group and what we’re building together!” on his X page.
So proud of this group and what we’re building together! 🇳🇴 pic.twitter.com/LVx2Q4Gpah
— Erling Haaland (@ErlingHaaland) November 14, 2025
Finally! 🇳🇴 pic.twitter.com/bPsbyBC4fB
— Erling Haaland (@ErlingHaaland) November 16, 2025
