Haaland explodes, Norway secures ticket to World Cup 2026

(NLDO) - Erling Haaland scored twice in Norway's 4-1 win over Estonia, bringing the Nordic team closer to the 2026 World Cup finals.

A brilliant performance from Alexander Sørloth and a brace from superstar Erling Haaland helped Norway to their seventh consecutive win in qualifying. The Nordic team secured a ticket to the 2026 World Cup finals despite fierce competition from giants Italy.

Norway, who went into the match with a must-win mission to move closer to their first World Cup appearance in nearly three decades, met fierce resistance from Estonia. The home team controlled the ball but lacked sharpness. Key striker Erling Haaland was closely marked and only managed one harmless header in the first 45 minutes.

Estonia almost created a surprise at Ullevaal Stadium

On the other hand, Estonia almost created a surprise when Rauno Sappinen had a dangerous counter-attack shot, forcing goalkeeper Orjan Nyland to show his talent to save. The first half ended 0-0, making Norwegian fans worried about the possibility that their World Cup berth would be decided in the final match against Italy.

The Explosion of Sørloth

Any worries were quickly dispelled as the second half began. Norway showed their destructive power with a whirlwind of goals in just six minutes. In the 50th minute, striker Alexander Sorloth received a cross from Sander Berge and bravely headed in the opening score, relieving the pressure on the home team.

Alexander Sorloth scored twice with beautiful aerial duels

Less than two minutes later, Sorloth continued to stun the Estonian defense when he repeated the same header, easily making it 2-0. With his teammates providing inspiration, Erling Haaland immediately spoke up.

Erling Haaland refuses to be outdone by his teammates

In the 58th minute, the Man City player also had a close-range header that was almost a copy of Sorloth's second goal, raising the score to 3-0.

Haaland then completed his double with a devastating volley into the top corner, sealing a 4-1 win after Robi Saarma scored a consolation goal for Estonia.

The decisive goal difference

With this victory, Norway officially won all 3 points. Although direct competitor Italy beat Moldova 2-0 in the match that took place a few hours later, the 3-point gap between the two sides remained the same.

Norway close to World Cup ticket after 28 years

Norway and Italy could be level on points when they face off in their final match at San Siro (Italy) this weekend. However, Norway holds a huge advantage in goal difference (+29), compared to Italy's modest +12.

This means that, to get Norway's ticket to the World Cup, Italy not only needs to win but also needs to win by a very large margin (minimum difference of… 18 goals).

It is an almost impossible task considering the balance of power and aspirations of the two teams.

The Italians sadly wait for the play-off match even though they beat Norway in the final round.

A first World Cup 2026 berth in 28 years is almost assured for Haaland and his teammates, forcing Italy to accept second place in Group I and prepare now for the risky play-off round.

England won all

Despite having already secured their ticket from the previous match series, England showed no signs of showing any mercy against Serbia at home at Wembley, considering this an important squad test for the upcoming campaigns.

The Three Lions scored two goals through Bukayo Saka and Eze Eberechi, extending their winning streak in the World Cup qualifying campaign to seven matches, scoring a total of 20 goals and not conceding a single goal.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/haaland-bung-no-na-uy-cam-chac-tam-ve-world-cup-2026-196251114073059298.htm