One thing is certain: when Italy begins its 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in June, it will already be playing catch-up. Unable to overcome Germany in the Nations League quarter-finals, the Azzurri find themselves automatically relegated to Group I, which includes Erling Haaland’s formidable Norway.
As was fairly predictable, they got off to a flying start: on Saturday, the Scandinavian side had a field day, making their debut with a resounding 5-0 win in Moldova. The Manchester City striker obviously got on the scoresheet, but he was not the only one, as five different players found the net. In addition to Haaland, Ryerson, Aasgaard, Sorloth, and Donnum also scored. Norway started 2025 as it ended 2024: in the last game of the Nations League group stage last November, Stale Solbakken’s men scored five goals against Kazakhstan, a victory that earned them promotion to League A at the expense of Austria. These are important signs from a national team that has talent to spare, especially in midfield and up front, and that is determined not to miss out on qualifying for a major international tournament for the umpteenth time.
Norway, watch out for Gloukh
On the second day, Haaland and his teammates will be looking to keep their perfect record intact in their match against Israel, which for obvious reasons will be played on neutral ground in Debrecen, Hungary.
The Israelis also got off to a winning start, but it was no walk in the park against Estonia, who they beat 2-1 after coming from behind. Ben Simon’s side, whom Italy already faced in the Nations League group stage, could have won by a bigger margin, but numerous mistakes in front of goal helped keep the Balts in the game. The best player on the pitch, as usual, was Salzburg’s talented Gloukh, who has already been targeted by clubs such as Manchester United and Arsenal and whom Norway will have to watch closely.
Odds comparison
Norway’s victory is priced at 1.60 on Goldbet and Lottomatica and 1.63 on Snai. The “Over 2.5” bet is priced at 1.70 on Goldbet, Lottomatica, and Snai.
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The prediction
It could already be a direct clash for second place between Israel and Norway. The Scandinavians are favorites, but the feeling is that the match in Debrecen will be tighter than expected, with both sides likely to find the back of the net.
Probable lineups for Israel-Norway
ISRAEL (4-2-3-1): Peretz; Dasa, Nachmias, Shlomo, Revivo; Jaber, Abu Fani; Biton, Gloukh, Solomon; David.
NORWAY (4-3-3): Nyland; Ryerson, Heggem, Ajer, Donnum; Odegaard, Berge, Aasgaard; Sorloth, Haaland, Schjelderup.
POSSIBLE RESULT: 1-2