Norway Completes Perfect World Cup Qualifying Campaign with 4-1 Victory Over Italy

Milan, Italy – Norway secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Italy at the San Siro on November 16, 2025, completing a flawless World Cup Qualifying campaign. The result sends Norway to their first World Cup since 1998, while Italy faces a playoff route to the 2026 tournament.

Match Summary

Italy took an early lead through Pio Esposito in the 11th minute, but Norway responded emphatically in the second half. Antonio Nusa equalized in the 63rd minute, followed by a quick-fire brace from Erling Haaland in the 78th and 79th minutes. Jørgen Strand Larsen added a fourth goal in stoppage time (90’+3) to seal the victory.

Key Moments

• 11′: Pio Esposito scores for Italy, assisted by Federico Dimarco.
• 63′: Antonio Nusa equalizes for Norway.
• 78′: Erling Haaland puts Norway ahead.
• 79′: Erling Haaland extends Norway’s lead.
• 90’+3: Jørgen Strand Larsen scores Norway’s fourth goal.

Team Lineups

Italy

Starting XI: Donnarumma, Di Lorenzo, Mancini, Bastoni, Dimarco, Barella, Locatelli, Frattesi, Politano, Esposito, Retegui.

Substitutes: Gabbia, Orsolini, Vicario, Cambiaso, Bellanova, Carnesecchi, Raspadori, Zaccagni, Cristante, Ricci, Buongiorno.

Norway

(Lineup details not provided in sources)

Statistics

• Possession: Italy 58% – Norway 42%
• Shots on Goal: Italy 4 – Norway 5
• Shot Attempts: Italy 15 – Norway 13
• Yellow Cards: Italy 3 – Norway 2
• Corner Kicks: Italy 6 – Norway 2
• Saves: Italy 1 – Norway 3

Playoff Berth for Italy

Despite the defeat, Italy finished second in Group I with 18 points. They will now compete in the World Cup play-offs in March 2026 for a chance to qualify for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Haaland’s Impact

Erling Haaland’s two goals in quick succession proved decisive, propelling Norway to victory and securing their qualification. This marks Norway’s first World Cup appearance since 1998. ESPN reported on Haaland’s pivotal role in the match.

Inter Milan Players Involved

Five Inter Milan players – Nicolò Barella, Alessandro Bastoni, Federico Dimarco, Francesco Pio Esposito, and Davide Frattesi – were in the starting lineup for Italy. Dimarco provided the assist for Esposito’s opening goal. Inter.it highlighted the involvement of the Inter Milan contingent.

Match Details

• Date: November 16, 2025
• Venue: San Siro, Milan, Italy
• Attendance: 69,020
• Referee: Alejandro José Hernández Hernández

Watch the match highlights on YouTube.