Norway stuns Italy to qualify for World Cup after 27 years

Norway has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 27 years after a stunning 4-1 victory over Italy in the eighth round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Sunday.

The Scandinavian side came from behind after Francesco Pio Espozito's 11th-minute opener for Italy. The match turned dramatically in the second half when Nusa equalised in the 63rd minute, followed by Erling Haaland scoring twice in the 78th and 79th minutes. Jorgen Larsen sealed the victory in stoppage time.

With this win, Norway maintained their perfect qualifying record with 24 points from eight matches, scoring 37 goals while conceding only five. Italy finished second in Group I with 18 points.

This marks Norway's first World Cup appearance since 1998, when they were eliminated in the round of 16. Their qualification breaks a 28-year drought and continues their impressive form of ten consecutive victories across all competitions.

The 2026 World Cup will feature qualified teams including France, Portugal, England, Argentina, Brazil, and hosts Canada, Mexico, and the United States.