In a stunning turn of events, Italy suffered a humiliating 4-1 defeat against Norway in the European Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup . The match, which took place at the historic San Siro stadium in Milan, will be remembered for Norway's dominant performance, led by the prolific Erling Haaland .
Italy, who had been aiming to secure a place in the World Cup, now face an uphill battle, needing a monumental nine-goal victory over Estonia to qualify . Meanwhile, Norway's victory has secured their place in the tournament, marking a significant achievement for the Kingdom of Norway .
One of the standout moments of the match was the return of Gianluigi Donnarumma to the Italian lineup . Despite his efforts, the Italian goalkeeper could not prevent Norway's relentless attack. Haaland, who scored two goals in just two minutes, was the catalyst for Norway's victory . His performance underscored his status as one of the world's top forwards, and his impact on the match was decisive .
The match also highlighted the tactical struggles of the Italian team, who have been plagued by inconsistency throughout the qualifying campaign. The defeat to Norway, coupled with their previous loss to North Macedonia, has raised questions about the team's ability to compete at the highest level .
The broader implications of this match are significant for both teams. For Italy, the loss is a major setback in their quest to return to the pinnacle of international football. The Azzurri, who had been in the Italian Republic for so long, now face an uncertain future . For Norway, the victory is a testament to their growing prowess on the international stage, and their qualification for the World Cup is a well-deserved reward for their consistent performances .
As the qualifying campaign enters its final stages, the focus will now shift to the remaining matches, with Italy needing a miracle to turn their fortunes around. The Azzurri's next match against Estonia will be crucial, and their ability to secure a large margin of victory will determine their fate. For Norway, the focus will be on maintaining their form and preparing for the World Cup, where they will aim to make a significant impact .
