Norway secured its place at the 2026 World Cup after defeating Italy 4-1 in the final qualifying match, sending the four-time champions to the playoffs for a third straight cycle. The Norwegians finished their campaign with eight consecutive victories, establishing a six-point cushion over the hosts, who needed an improbable nine-goal margin to advance on goal difference.
Francesco Pio Esposito gave Italy an early advantage with a close-range conversion, and the home side controlled much of the opening period. The match shifted dramatically after halftime when Antonio Nusa leveled the contest with a left-footed strike. Erling Haaland then exploited defensive lapses to score twice within two minutes, bringing his qualifying total to 16 goals. Jorgen Strand Larsen added a fourth during stoppage time to complete the emphatic victory.
Italy will face the playoff route for the third consecutive World Cup cycle after missing the previous two tournaments.
Francesco Pio Esposito gave Italy an early advantage with a close-range conversion, and the home side controlled much of the opening period. The match shifted dramatically after halftime when Antonio Nusa leveled the contest with a left-footed strike. Erling Haaland then exploited defensive lapses to score twice within two minutes, bringing his qualifying total to 16 goals. Jorgen Strand Larsen added a fourth during stoppage time to complete the emphatic victory.
Italy will face the playoff route for the third consecutive World Cup cycle after missing the previous two tournaments.
