Erling Haaland Hat-Trick Pushes Norway Closer to First World Cup in Over Two Decades

Erling Haaland delivered another commanding performance as Norway cruised to a 5-0 win over Israel, moving closer to qualifying for their first World Cup since 1998. The Manchester City striker scored a hat-trick, missed a penalty, and still managed to dominate the match in front of a lively home crowd at Oslo’s Ullevaal Stadium.

Norway, who last appeared in a major tournament at Euro 2000, now sit at the top of Group I with a nine-point lead over second-placed Italy. Italy, however, have two games in hand and will play in Estonia later on Saturday. The scenario is clear: if Norway defeat Estonia on Tuesday and Italy drop points against either Estonia or Israel, the Scandinavians will officially book their ticket to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.How Did Haaland’s Hat-Trick Unfold?

Haaland’s afternoon began with frustration when his early penalty was saved by Israel’s goalkeeper Daniel Peretz. The kick was ordered to be retaken due to encroachment, but Peretz denied him again with another strong stop. Norway eventually took the lead in the 18th minute through an own goal from Anan Khalaili. Moments later, Haaland finally found his rhythm, racing clear to score for the ninth consecutive international match.

The pressure on Israel’s defense only grew worse. Just seconds after the restart, another own goal came when Peretz’s clearance struck defender Idan Nachmias and rolled into the net. Nachmias later left the pitch injured after colliding with the post.

Haaland struck again in the 63rd minute, heading home a precise cross from Antonio Nusa. He completed his hat-trick 18 minutes from time with another powerful header, bringing his total to 12 goals in European qualifying, the highest of any player so far.

The victory not only strengthens Norway’s qualification hopes but also builds excitement among fans who have waited more than twenty years to see their team on football’s biggest stage. The next fixture against Estonia could be the decisive moment if Italy stumble in their upcoming matches.

Off the pitch, the game was marked by political tension as hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the stadium before kick-off. Protesters chanted “Free Palestine,” voicing opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza. The president of Norway’s Football Association, Lise Klaveness, recently said she was advocating “for Israel to be sanctioned.”

Elsewhere in the qualifiers, Hungary defeated Armenia 2-0 in Group F, while Portugal could seal early qualification with wins over the Republic of Ireland and Hungary in their next matches.

For Norway, however, all eyes remain on Haaland, whose relentless form continues to fuel the country’s long-awaited World Cup return.

By Yockshard Enyendi