In a decisive Italy vs Norway showdown, Norway crushed Italy 4–1 in Milan on Sunday, clinching automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup — while sending Italy into the playoffs. The result reverberates across Europe, as Norway completes a perfect qualifying campaign and Italy’s struggles deepen once again.
Crushing Blow for Italy, Historic Night for Norway
Norway entered the Italy vs Norway match in control of Group I, but needed a positive result to secure their spot at the 2026 World Cup. Italy, by contrast, faced a must-win scenario — theoretically needing a huge goal swing to bypass Norway on goal difference.
Italy struck early: Francesco Pio Esposito opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a sharp finish after a cross, giving the Azzurri hope. But Norway responded in dominating fashion in the second half.
Antonio Nusa leveled for Norway in the 63rd minute with a fierce low strike, and then Erling Haaland turned the game on its head with a stunning brace in the 78th and 79th minutes. Jørgen Strand Larsen added a stoppage-time goal to seal the victory and send Norway to their first World Cup in 27 years.
Tactical Breakdown and Key Performances
Norway’s Clinical Second Half
In the Italy vs Norway clash, Norway’s composure and sharpness after the break were pivotal. While Italy controlled early possession and limited Norway’s looks, it was Norway who showed the better intensity in the second half. Their quick, vertical play exposed Italy’s defensive vulnerabilities, and they executed with precision in attack.
Haaland, as always, was the killer. His first was a volleyed finish from a precise cross, while the second was a well-timed tap-in after winning a loose ball. Strand Larsen’s late strike capped a devastating counter that underscored Norway’s threat on the break.
Nusa also deserves credit — his goal came from a well-constructed move, and his confidence in front of goal has become a major asset for Norway.
Italy’s Deflated Momentum
Italy’s optimism after the Esposito goal faded fast. Despite enjoying over 50% possession and peppering Norway with attempts, they lacked the cutting edge when needed. Their build-up play was too slow, and when chances came, they failed to finish cleanly.
Defensively, Italy looked fragile under pressure. Their midfield lost too many duels, and their backline struggled to deal with Norway’s pace and direct style. The Azzurri also seemed mentally shaken after Norway’s second goal — losing structure and composure in crucial moments.
Coach Gennaro Gattuso now faces a difficult path: Italy must prepare for playoff matches, but the lack of cohesion and discipline in this game raises questions about their readiness.
Broader Implications
Norway’s Resurgence
This Italy vs Norway result is monumental for Norway. They achieved a perfect qualifying record — a rare feat — and secured their place in the 2026 World Cup. The maturity displayed in Milan proves this is not just a flash-in-the-pan squad. With players like Haaland, Nusa, and Strand Larsen operating at such a high level, Norway will head into the tournament with real belief.
Their midfield and attack are firing, and defensively they kept their cool when it mattered most. Qualifying in style sends a powerful statement: Norway is ready to contend.
Italy’s Crisis Deepens
For Italy, this defeat is a harsh new low. Being outplayed at home and conceding four goals shows serious cracks in their setup. Having to go through playoffs yet again — after already missing out on the last two World Cups — adds pressure on the national program to rethink.
Is this the end of an era, or will looser tactical thinking and youth injections save Italy? Gattuso’s rebuilding work will be under heavy scrutiny; fans will demand more than just rivalry wins — they want results.
Players to Watch Moving Forward
- Erling Haaland (Norway): His brace sealed qualification and once again proved why he is one of the world’s most feared forwards.
- Antonio Nusa (Norway): Young, dynamic, and clinical — his goal and overall play were key for Norway’s breakout.
- Jørgen Strand Larsen (Norway): Came up big in the final seconds — a potent finisher with a nose for big moments.
- Francesco Pio Esposito (Italy): Scored early, showed promise, but needs support from more experienced teammates in high-stakes games.
- Italy’s Defense: The backline and midfield must regroup and tighten up before the playoff demands.
What’s Next
- Norway now prepares for the World Cup with momentum, confidence, and a roster full of young talent plus elite firepower.
- Italy faces a nerve-wracking playoff path to stay alive in the 2026 qualification race. They must address the defensive frailties and mental lapses exposed by Norway.
Credit: SportBuzzHub.com
Date: November 17, 2025
