MILAN: Italy’s hopes of direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup suffered a major blow on Sunday as the Azzurri were thrashed 4-1 by Norway in their final Group ‘I’ qualifier at the San Siro. Needing an almost impossible nine-goal victory to overtake Norway, Italy failed to secure even a consolation win, leaving them to navigate the UEFA playoffs in March.
The defeat marks another painful reminder of Italy’s struggles in World Cup qualification. Having missed the past two tournaments following playoff exits, the four-time world champions will now attempt to claim one of the remaining four European slots through a high-pressure knockout route. Coach Gennaro Gattuso acknowledged the heavy loss, apologizing to fans and emphasizing the need to regroup ahead of the playoffs.
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Norway completed a perfect qualifying campaign, winning all eight of their matches to secure 24 points. Erling Haaland’s brace in quick succession sealed the victory, while Antonio Nusa and Jorgen Strand Larsen added to the hosts’ misery. Norwegian captain Martin Odegaard described the qualification as “unreal,” praising the team’s perseverance after years of setbacks.
Italy briefly led through Pio Esposito in the 11th minute, but Norway dominated the second half, with Haaland and Larsen ensuring a humiliating finish for the Azzurri. Nearly 70,000 fans witnessed the dramatic turnaround at the San Siro, with Norwegian supporters celebrating their team’s return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
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The Azzurri now face an uncertain road through the playoffs, needing to overcome tough competition to secure a spot in the North American tournament, while Norway look ahead to the World Cup with confidence in a squad led by their prolific striker Haaland.