Imagine the roar of victory, the explosion of joy, the unbridled passion of a nation on the cusp of a dream realized. That’s exactly what’s happening right now with Norway’s national football team. They’re not just winning; they’re on the verge of something truly special: a return to the World Cup after nearly three decades in the wilderness. Ståle Solbakken’s squad recently demolished Estonia 4-1, bringing them tantalizingly close to securing their place at the 2026 World Cup – a feat they haven’t accomplished since the days of France ’98.
Fueled by a dynamic duo, Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth, who each bagged a brace (two goals), Norway dominated Estonia in a whirlwind 12-minute period at their home ground, Ullevaal Stadion. Currently sitting atop Group I, they boast a comfortable three-point lead over Italy and a practically insurmountable goal difference (+29). This means their ticket to the World Cup is virtually guaranteed.
But here’s where it gets controversial… There’s still a tiny chance, a footballing miracle, that could derail their plans. Italy would need to absolutely obliterate Moldova in a historic, high-scoring victory. It’s so unlikely, it’s almost laughable! However, if that improbable scenario doesn’t materialize, Norway will face Italy on Sunday in a match that, barring the aforementioned miracle, will essentially be a formality – a final step towards direct qualification.
Initially, Norway struggled to unlock Estonia’s defense. But once the floodgates opened, there was no stopping them. Sørloth broke the deadlock in the 50th minute with a powerful header, expertly delivered from a Sander Berge cross. Just two minutes later, he doubled the lead, this time thanks to a brilliant assist from Julian Ryerson, who also played a pivotal role in setting up Haaland’s first goal in the 56th minute, making it 3-0.
And this is the part most people miss… Ryerson’s contribution shouldn’t be understated. He was a constant threat down the right flank, causing all sorts of problems for the Estonian defense.
Haaland then completed his brace in the 60th minute, coolly finishing off a pass from David Møller Wolfe. Estonia managed to pull one back through Robi Saarma, but the damage was already done. The match was firmly in Norway’s grasp.
Haaland, as always, continues to shatter records. He now boasts an incredible 30 goals this season and a staggering 53 goals in just 47 appearances for Norway – truly remarkable statistics for a 25-year-old forward. To put that into perspective, that’s more than a goal per game for his country!
The final whistle unleashed unadulterated pandemonium inside the Norwegian locker room. Picture this: music blasting, chants echoing, and a wildly enthusiastic Haaland leading his teammates in a war cry, dancing and celebrating with the pure joy of a man about to fulfill a lifelong ambition. This scene perfectly captured the raw emotion of a team on the verge of achieving something truly special: qualifying for the World Cup without having to endure the nerve-wracking playoffs.
The celebration is entirely justified. Norway is on the cusp of joining England and France as the only European nations already confirmed for the World Cup. For a country that has been absent from the world’s biggest footballing stage for nearly three decades, this moment is nothing short of historic.
Unless a seismic upset occurs at San Siro (that’s Italy’s home stadium), Norway and their superstar striker, Erling Haaland, are destined to grace the 2026 World Cup. And judging by the electrifying energy in that locker room, they are more than ready to embrace every exhilarating moment of the journey.
So, what do you think? Is Norway a team to watch out for in the 2026 World Cup? Can Haaland lead them to glory? Or will the pressure be too much? Does anyone think Italy actually has a chance to spoil the party? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!