Norway had one of the most remarkable qualification narratives of the World Cup qualification, beating Italy 41 to qualify directly to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The outcome puts Italy back into the playoffs, and it continues a series of anxiety after missing the 2 previous World Cup finals.
Italy started the match under immense pressure to score goals due to Norway’s better goal difference. Their violent opening was rewarded when Francesco Pio Esposito scored in close range after 10 minutes, which not only boosted the home supporters but also gave hope of an unlikely recovery. Azzurri did not abstain but could not find the right goal and could not take the critical opportunities, which might have changed the course of the game.
It took a new twist when Antonio Nusa drew the level with only half an hour to go and capitalised on the defensive lapses by calmly finishing off. This swing was now entirely in the direction of the visitors, who exhibited a calmness, a discipline and deadly finishing at the transition.
The target of the attacking Norway was Erling Haaland, who impressed with the exemplary performance with the goals at the 78th and 79th minutes, the first one was a well-executed volley, and the second one was a fast counterattack shocking the Italian defence. He is currently at 16 goals in the qualifiers, making him stronger as the most consistent finisher in football.
Italy, in turn, has to face a mental and structural dilemma. They were defeated in their final playoff attempt against Sweden (2018) and North Macedonia (2022). Coach Gennaro Gattuso showed his regrets and desire with the need to be united and be responsible.
