Norway Breaks 28-Year Curse, Reaches World Cup 2026 Perfectly

In the grandeur of San Siro, Norway's struggle to appear in the World Cup finally bore fruit. After a 28-year wait, Norway officially qualified for the 2026 World Cup in perfect fashion.

In the final match of UEFA Group I Qualifiers, Norway defeated hosts Italy with a convincing 4-1 score at San Siro Stadium, Milan, on Monday, November 17, 2025, early morning WIB.

This victory wasn't just worth three points—it opened the door to the world stage long closed for previous generations.

When Italy Threatened, Norway Refused to Fall

From the opening minutes, Italy showed their ambition to chase a miracle. They needed to win by a nine-goal margin—a nearly impossible mission—yet pursued it with determination.

Italy took an early lead through Francesco Pio Esposito's goal just 11 minutes into the match.

San Siro roared. Italy attacked relentlessly. But Norway held firm, biding their time. Gradually, the match turned.

As reported by FIFA's website, Norway ultimately overturned the result with four goals from Antonio Nusa (63'), Erling Haaland (78', 79'), and Jorgen Strand Larsen (90+3').

Perfect in Eight Matches with 24 Points

When the final whistle blew, everything became official. The victory over Italy confirmed Norway's position atop UEFA Group I Qualifiers with a flawless 24 points from eight matches, securing automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

This marked a flawless campaign, something Norway had never achieved in their journey to the previous three World Cup editions.

The 2026 World Cup will be Norway's fourth appearance in the quadrennial tournament after previously featuring in 1938, 1994, and 1998.

Meanwhile, Italy must again seek a playoff lifeline. The defeat left Italy second in the group with 18 points from eight matches, forcing them to battle through playoffs.

This contrasts sharply with the team that missed the last two World Cups. Italy surely won't want to miss their playoff chance for 2026 qualification after failing to reach the finals in both 2018 and 2022.

Haaland, Ending the 28-Year Wait

Norway turned the tide and extended their lead through two goals by Erling Haaland within just two minutes.

"I'm happy but more relieved. There was a lot of pressure and other things, and I felt it. But this is fun," Haaland stated on the UEFA official website on Monday, November 17, 2025.

Haaland spearheaded this revolution with 16 goals in 8 matches, making him the top scorer in UEFA's 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

Haaland became the vital figure in Norway's World Cup qualification. And he felt it wholeheartedly.

"It feels absolutely crazy. I'm proud and this is truly fantastic."

Haaland also sent a message to the world.

"The fact that we could come here and win 4-1 shows we're somewhat unpredictable. That's quite good for everyone to know."

Ultimately, this was the moment Norway had awaited since 1998—a night when history changed course, a night where a new generation, led by Haaland, returned the nation to football's world map. The 28-year wait was finally over.