Erling Haaland Marches Toward World Cup 2026! Man City’s Goal Machine Strikes Twice as Norway Stun Italy to Claim Their Spot

Erling Haaland’s explosive brace powered Norway to an emphatic 4-1 victory over Italy, securing the nation’s first World Cup appearance since 1998. The Manchester City superstar ignited the match with two goals in under a minute, driving his team to finish atop their qualifying group with conviction. If Haaland sustains this devastating scoring momentum, he could become one of the most feared forwards at his debut World Cup.

A Tale of Momentum Shifts

Norway entered the match with a three-point advantage and a commanding goal difference, yet Italy approached the game as though determined to rewrite the narrative. The hosts burst into action and claimed the lead in the 11th minute through a sharp finish from Francesco Pio Esposito. The 20-year-old nearly doubled the advantage before halftime, but his promising header soared off target inside the iconic San Siro.

Norway, largely passive in the opening half, emerged far more assertive after the break. Alexander Sørloth rattled Italy’s defense with several dangerous efforts, some brushing the side netting while others skimmed over the bar. As the visitors grew in confidence, Antonio Nusa embarked on a dynamic 20-yard drive before smashing a fierce strike beyond Gianluigi Donnarumma in the 63rd minute.

Both goalkeepers Donnarumma and Norway’s Ørjan Nyland delivered crucial saves late in the contest, but the breakthrough came when Haaland unleashed a sublime volley from Oscar Bobb’s floated cross in the 78th minute. Merely moments later, the 25-year-old added his second, calmly finishing from close range to extend the advantage. Deep into stoppage time, substitute Jørgen Strand Larsen curled home a composed shot, sealing Norway’s perfect qualifying run with eight wins from eight. Italy, meanwhile, now face the uncertainty of navigating the play-offs.

The Unquestionable Star of the Match

It could only be Haaland. While Nusa sparked Norway’s revival and Strand Larsen added the final flourish, Haaland’s deadly double shattered Italy’s resistance in Milan. His first goal a breathtaking volley left Donnarumma rooted in place. His second showcased classic predator’s instinct, timing and placement working in flawless harmony. With Haaland leading the line, Norway may well emerge as a formidable force in North America in 2026.

The Biggest Disappointment

Though Pio Esposito squandered a golden chance to make it 2–0 just before the break, and Norway’s Julian Ryerson sporting a bold, Rodman-inspired leopard-print haircut committed the error that led to Italy’s opener, the true disappointment was Italy’s collective collapse. To concede four goals in the second half and fade without resistance is a harsh conclusion to their group-stage campaign and a sobering reminder of the challenges ahead.