Can Erling Haaland (25, Manchester City), who is performing so well, actually play in the World Cup?
Norway defeated Italy 3-0 in the first match of Group I of the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup European qualifiers held in Oslo, Norway, on the 7th.
With three victories and 9 points, Norway leads Group I, increasing their chances of qualifying for the World Cup. Israel (2 wins, 1 loss, 6 points) is in second place, Estonia (1 win, 2 losses, 3 points) is in third place. Italy, with no points, falls to fourth place with 1 loss. Moldova is fifth with 2 losses.
Norway's attacking power broke down Italy's defense. Alexander Sørloth scored the opening goal just 14 minutes into the first half. Antonio Nusa added another goal in the 34th minute, extending Norway's lead to 2-0.
The finishing touch was Haaland's responsibility. The world's best striker, Haaland, scored the clinching goal in the 42nd minute of the first half, receiving a pass from Martin Ødegaard. Norway secured a resounding victory without conceding a goal in the second half.
Norway has not qualified for the World Cup since the 1998 France World Cup. Their last participation in the European Championship was Euro 2000. It has been over 20 years without qualifying for a major international tournament.
Norway has built a golden generation. Many players, including Haaland, Ødegaard (Arsenal), Alexander Sørloth (Atletico Madrid), Julian Ryerson (Dortmund), and Andreas Schjelderup (Benfica), are key players in prestigious European teams.
Haaland is universally recognized as the world's best striker. Will we be able to see Haaland play in the World Cup?
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