Italy Faces World Cup Playoff After Shocking Defeat to Norway
OSLO, Norway – November 16, 2024 – Italy’s hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup were dashed tonight following a stunning 4-1 loss to Norway in Oslo. The defeat marks a low point for the Azzurri and forces them into a precarious playoff lottery for a spot in the tournament.
This result throws Italy’s World Cup aspirations into turmoil, jeopardizing their participation in the expanded 48-team competition. Having previously suffered a 3-0 defeat to Norway in their first encounter, this latest setback underscores a meaningful decline in form and raises serious questions about the team’s ability to compete at the highest level. Italy will now have to navigate a challenging playoff route, facing uncertainty and relying on other results to secure a place in the finals.
Norway dominated the second half, shifting the momentum after a more restrained first period. Leipzig’s Antonio Nusa leveled the score at 1-1 in the 63rd minute with a solo effort. Erling Haaland then took center stage, scoring twice in quick succession – in the 78th and 79th minutes – bringing his total in World Cup qualifying to 15 and 16 goals.Jörgen Strand Larsen added a fourth goal in added time (90th + 3), sealing a comprehensive victory for the home side.
With this win, Norway secured their first World Cup qualification since 1998, marking their fourth appearance in the tournament and completed an eight-game unbeaten run. The Norwegian team’s resurgence under coach Stale Solbakken has been remarkable, demonstrating a cohesive and potent attacking force.
